How do I wear an antique watch chain?

An antique watch chain is secured by passing the T-bar through a waistcoat buttonhole. The chain drapes across the front, with the pocket watch or fob tucked into the pocket. Many modern buyers also wear these chains as necklaces or bracelets by fastening the dog clip directly to the other end of the chain.

Are these pieces hallmarked?

Many nineteenth-century items carry British hallmarks indicating the assay office, metal purity and year of creation. Stamped marks like 9ct, 15ct, 18ct or sterling silver appear on links, shanks and fittings. Rolled gold items and older pieces may feature maker marks or partial stamps rather than full assay office hallmarks.

Rolled gold is a material made by fusing a sheet of gold to a base metal core, such as brass or copper, under heat and pressure. This technique created durable items with the appearance of solid gold at a lower cost. It appears frequently in twentieth-century watch chains and accessories.