Did the Qing Dynasty Have Watches?
The formal invention of the wristwatch dates back to 1904, predating 1904, numerous at
Did the Qing Dynasty Have Watches?
The formal invention of the wristwatch dates back to 1904, predating 1904, numerous attempts were made to wear small pocket watches on the wrist or integrate time-telling pieces into bracelets for women. The Santos watch by Cartier, designed specifically for the Brazilian aviation pioneer Santos-Dumont to check time while flying, is recorded as humanity’s first purpose-designed wristwatch, following the Wright brothers’ invention of the airplane by just one year.
Given that the Qing Dynasty ended in 1911, wristwatches did exist during its final years. However, wristwatches took about two decades to gain global popularity from their inception. By 1911, even in Western countries, wristwatches were not widespread as pocket watches remained preferred. Hence, during the Qing Dynasty, wristwatches were likely brought to China in minimal numbers by foreigners.
Interestingly, the last emperor, Puyi, was a passionate watch enthusiast, despite having abdicated years before around 1930. His zeal for wristwatches, spending a significant amount of money on them whether in Tianjin or Changchun, is vividly described in the memoirs of Aisin-Gioro Yuhao and the film ”The Last Emperor.”
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