Although we would never use a fabulous thing like this to wind a watch, that was the practical purpose it was intended for. Back before watches were wound by twisting the stem, a key was fitted to a gear at the back of the watch to wind the piece. Since it was necessary to carry the key with the watch, these keys often took fanciful forms and were used as decorative fobs on the watch chains alongside the watches.

We love to wear these antique watch keys and fobs as pendants. This 14k gold key is cunningly crafted in the form of a flintlock gun, and the details are beautiful. It currently hands on a vintage 14k gold flattened curb link chain. This pendant would look fantastic on one of our Ancient Influences married chains, the bale is large enough to accommodate a dog clip or bolt ring. The watch key dates circa 1870, the chain dates circa 1940.

Details.....The pendant measures 1.15" by 0.45". The chain is 18" long.

Each item from this line of jewelry is unique and incorporates re-purposed vintage, recycled and antique pieces, small imperfections are to be expected and considered part of the charm.