The history of wrist watches and how they became so popular.

In the nineteenth century, the most popular form of portable watch was the pocket watch. It became a symbol of class and sophistication to carry a timepiece. However, at some point late in that century, an enterprising individual decided it would be handier to carry her watch around her wrist.

According to popular legend, this individual was a nanny, and she fastened her watch around her wrist with a silk band, thus creating the first impromptu wrist watch. Eventually, other people caught on to this handy idea, including Louis Cartier, who designed the first modern-style wrist watch. By 1911, wrist watches were all the rage.

As wrist watches became more and more popular, designers began to deviate from the standard round style and came up with a wide variety of designs. Rather than being merely a functional tool, the wrist watch evolved into a fashion accessory – in fact, a fashion necessity–for most. Today’s watches come in any color, any style.

Since the first wrist watches, these portable time pieces have become more than just a way to keep track of appointments. The numerous kinds and styles of wrist watches make it possible to have a watch for every occasion, or even every outfit. Adding a splash of color, shine or style to any ensemble, the wrist watch is a perfect way to add just that special, final touch to any outfit or any occasion from casual to the highest fashion.

Today’s wrist watches are also high-tech, precision machines, able to give the time to the exact second. Some even provide times from multiple time zones, or can be used under water or under other unfavorable conditions. Even with competition from other time keeping devices such as cell phones and PDAs, the wrist watch remains a “must have” for the twenty-first century.