The First World War marked a pivotal shift in watchmaking, as soldiers moved from pocket watches to wristwatches for practicality in the field. These early “trench watches” were adapted for combat, featuring legible dials, luminous hands and protective cases. Wire lugs were often soldered onto pocket watch cases, creating some of the first true wristwatches. Today, these pieces represent an important turning point—where function drove design and the modern wristwatch was born.

What's on offer

A charming early trench-style wristwatch that captures the moment pocket watches made the leap to the wrist. This Ladysmith-signed piece is full of period detail, starting with a crisp white enamel dial that has aged beautifully over time.

The dial layout is classic and highly legible, with elegant Breguet-style Arabic numerals, a traditional sub seconds register and a striking red 12—often used historically to aid quick orientation at a glance. Slender blued steel hands sit proudly against the enamel, adding both contrast and refinement.

The case is equally appealing, featuring a finely detailed coin-edged bezel and an oversized onion crown—both hallmarks of early wristwatch design. Wire lugs complete the look, reinforcing its origins in the transition from pocket to wrist-worn timekeeping.

Paired with a simple strap for modern wearability, this is an honest and characterful example of early 20th century watchmaking—functional, elegant, and full of history.