The National Watch and Clock Museum
Early 20th Century Shop

Jewelers, Jobbers and General Stores

By the end of the 19th century, people throughout America could purchase a watch or clock quite easily. The late 1800s saw the proliferation of jewelry stores in cities and towns alike, and by the turn of the century, the corner jewelry store was something of an American institution. The typical jewelry store owner in early 20th-century America was a respected member of the community offering his clients courteous and thorough service. A good source to items like eyeglasses, writing implements, silverware and, of course, jewelry. These stores also stocked a wide variety of timepieces and accessories (i.e. watch fobs, keys and chains). In addition, town jewelers offered watch and clock services.

While jewelry stores offered a variety of horological items, including high-end watches, the general store was a good place to pick up more affordable dollar-type pocket watches. Jewelers and other merchants who sold timekeepers rarely bought their own inventory directly from factories, but instead made their purchases through middlemen know as "jobbers' or via trade catalogs.

The trade catalog was in fact a significant source of clock and watch purchasing during the early to mid 20th century. retailers relied on these resources to maintain their inventory and keep up on new models and styles that manufactures had to offer. For people who lived away from their immediate area, mail order catalogs were one of the best and sometimes only ways to purchase a watch or clock. 

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