Folio Pocket Watch

Discover the World of Exquisite Folio Timepieces

For centuries, pocket watches have captivated the imaginations of people around the world. There is something undeniably special about holding an intricate timepiece in your hand and feeling its steady rhythm ticking away. While many pocket watch brands have come and gone, Folio has stood the test of time, crafting exquisite pocket watches that are appreciated by watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.

In this comprehensive buying guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Folio pocket watches – from available styles and features to proper care and maintenance. Whether you are looking for a vintage treasure or modern heirloom, you are sure to find the perfect Folio timepiece for your needs. So without further delay, let’s delve into the world of Folio pocket watches!

Where to Buy Folio Pocket Watches

While Folio pocket watches were traditionally sold through jewelry and department stores, today there are many options for where to buy them:

• Online retailers – Many watch and accessory websites sell new and vintage Folio watches. This allows you to easily compare different styles and prices.
• Folio website – The official Folio website offers their full collection of pocket watches for direct purchase. Limited editions and custom engravings are also available.
• Auction sites – You can find antique and discontinued Folio models on auction sites. But be sure to verify authenticity before bidding.
• Estate sales – It’s not uncommon to find vintage Folio watches at estate sales and antique shops. Take time to examine condition and functionality.
• Brand boutiques – Some jewelry and department stores have dedicated Folio boutiques featuring their latest watch releases and unique styles.

Styles of Folio Pocket Watches

Folio pocket watches come in a wide array of styles to suit different tastes and occasions:

• Classic – Timeless designs with traditional rounded cases and Roman numerals. Often adorned with intricate engraving.
• Skeleton – Featuring an open-worked dial that exposes the movement. A complex and mesmerizing style.
• Hunting case – The protective outer case folds over the glass crystal for added durability. Popular in vintage styles.
• Half hunter – Has a hinged metal lid over the dial but a visible crystal. Provides moderate protection.
• Double hunter – Features two overlapping spring-activated metal covers to protect the glass crystal and dial.
• Jeweled movements – Decorated with ruby and sapphire bearings for added luxury. Catches light beautifully.
• Enamel dials – Artistic dials featuring hand-painted enamel designs like guilloché patterns or portraits.
• Engraved cases/caps – Ornate scrollwork and monogram engravings personalized to the owner.

Reliability and Accuracy

Folio pocket watches are crafted to the highest standards to ensure reliable timekeeping. Here are some key factors that contribute to their accuracy and performance:

• Swiss movements – Many Folio watches feature precise Swiss movements like those from ETA. Known for their superb quality.
• Quality materials – Durable metals like stainless steel, gold, and silver are used. Hardened mineral crystals protect the dials.
• Hand assembly – Skilled technicians hand assemble and inspect each movement. Tight tolerances eliminate errors.
• Shock resistance – Protective casings and fine-tuned movements allow Folio watches to withstand reasonable shocks and impacts.
• Water resistance – While not fully waterproof, many Folio watches have basic water resistance through sealed cases.
• Smooth winders – Manual winding is easy and consistent due to quality winding stems and interiors.
• Regulation – Each new Folio watch is calibrated for accuracy through regulation prior to sale.

With proper care and maintenance, a Folio pocket watch will likely outlive most other watches and become a treasured keepsake.

How Folio Compares to Other Watch Brands

Folio pocket watches are comparable and often exceed the quality of luxury brands like Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, Audemars Piguet:

• Workmanship – Meticulous hand-crafting and attention to detail across all components.
• Legacy – Like the finest Swiss makers, Folio has over a century of watchmaking heritage.
• Prestige – Folio timepieces have graced royalty over the generations. They carry prestige worldwide.
• Quality movements – Folio uses elite Swiss movements from revered makers like ETA and Unitas.
• Status – Ownership signifies taste, refinement, and the means to own a handcrafted luxury good.
• Investment potential – Folio watches can potentially appreciate in value, especially rare collectible editions.
• Innovation – While steeped in tradition, Folio continually evolves, pioneering complex movements.

For those seeking peerless quality and status, Folio pocket watches are on par with the finest Swiss brands – but at more accessible prices.

Materials and Components

Only the finest materials go into constructing Folio pocket watches:

• Cases – Stainless steel, yellow gold, rose gold, and silver cases offer durability and beauty. Platinum and titanium are occasionally used as well.
• Dials – Protected under durable mineral crystal, dials may be solid-colored, textured,skeletonized, engraved, or decorated with enamel.
• Hands – Crafted from steel or other metals, the hour and minute hands can be simple or ornate. Some have luminous fill for visibility.
• Chains – Attached chains are made from metals like stainless steel or leather. Some may have jeweled or engraved embellishments.
• Movements – Swiss manual or automatic movements from respected makers like ETA and Sellita ensure precision timekeeping.
• Complications – Special functions like moonphase indicators, calendars, chronographs, and repeaters increases complexity.
• Jewels – Ruby and sapphire jewels serve as low-friction bearings for the delicate gear trains.
• Plating – Cases and other components may be plated in silver, gold, or other finishes.

Setting the Time on a Folio Watch

Setting the time on Folio pocket watches varies slightly depending on the movement type:

Manual wind movements:

1. Open the watch case to expose the dial.
2. Pull the crown gently out to the time-setting position, usually one or two clicks.
3. Turn the crown clockwise slowly to advance the hands to the correct time. Set to the closest minute.
4. Push the crown back into the normal running position.
5. Give ~25 clockwise turns of the crown to manually wind the mainspring.

Automatic movements:

1. Unscrew or pull the crown out to the time setting position.
2. Turn the crown to set the hands to the proper time.
3. Push the crown back in. The motion of your wrist will automatically wind the mainspring.
4. For initial use, turn the crown ~25 times to start the watch before pushing it in.

Avoid forcing the crown or turning it counter-clockwise to prevent damage.

Pricing: What To Expect

The price range for new Folio pocket watches spans:

• Entry-level – Simple manual wind models in steel cases start around $350-$500.
• Mid-range – Quality automatic movements with classic styling run $800-$1,500.
• High-end – Elaborate limited editions with precious metals and complications easily exceed $3,000+.
• Vintage – Models from the early 1900s in good condition can cost $1,000-$4,000+ depending on rarity.

Factors that increase the price include precious metals, complications, limited production runs, and decorated movements. Exquisite engraving and enamel work also boosts value.

It’s possible to find discontinued Folio models online for discount prices. Bargain hunters can look for vintage pieces needing restoration.

Finding Deals and Discounts

Several tips for finding discounted Folio pocket watches:

• Watch for holiday sales around Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Father’s Day when brands often discount luxury watches.
• Vintage Folio watches found at estate sales or auctions can sell for well below retail prices of new pieces.
• Check the Folio website for outlet deals, sale items, and coupon codes you can apply at checkout. Sign up for email alerts on promotions.
• Pre-owned Folio watches in ‘like new’ condition are sold through various watch vendors at sizable discounts.
• Credit card price protection can allow you to get refunded the difference if the watch price is lowered soon after your purchase.
• Become familiar with retail prices so you can recognize a deal when you see discounted Folio watches come up for sale.

With some persistence, you can save hundreds of dollars buying pre-enjoyed and vintage Folio timepieces. Time your purchase right, and you may grab a bargain on a new luxury model as well.

Caring for Your Folio Pocket Watch

Folio pocket watches deserve special care and handling to maintain their beauty and function for years:

• Avoid exposing them to dust, debris, and moisture. Only wipe with a microfiber cloth.
• Gently clean the crystal periodically with an eyeglass cloth or crystal cleaning solution.
• Use a very soft brush to remove debris inside the case, around the movement.
• When not in use, store vertically in a protective watch case or pouch.
• Handle carefully by the case, not the winding stem. Attach the chain before putting in a pocket.
• Winding gently once per day (40 turns max) keeps the movement lubricated in manual wind pieces.
• Apply a watch oil like Moebius 9010 to the movement every 3-5 years to maintain smooth function.
• Arrange servicing by a watchmaker every 4-6 years, sooner if issues arise. This will keep the movement in excellent shape.

With regular upkeep, your prized Folio pocket watch will gracefully endure for generations as a family heirloom.

What Buyers Say About Folio Pocket Watches

Reviews for Folio pocket watches are overwhelmingly positive. Owners regularly praise:

• Quality – Durable cases, reliable movements, and excellent craftsmanship.
• Beauty – Stunning dials with fine details that impress anyone who sees them.
• Accuracy – Keep precise time as expected from a fine Swiss watch.
• Status – Wearing a Folio elicits compliments and conveys refined taste.
• Value – Comparable to more expensive luxury brands yet priced accessibly. Worth the investment.
• Heirloom appeal – Many buyers plan on passing their Folio down to children. Will last for generations.
• Smooth winding – Manual wind models have buttery winding stems for a pleasant tactile experience.
• Packaging – Arrives in an elegant box perfect for gifting special occasions.

Satisfied customers say you simply can’t go wrong with the impeccable style, quality, and heritage of Folio pocket watches. They are worth every penny.

Collectability and Value Retention

In addition to their functionality as timepieces, Folio pocket watches are collected as beautiful art objects and investments. Here’s an overview:

• Vintage models – Some early 1900s Folio watches command premium prices from collectors. Especially rare pieces in good condition.
• Limited Editions – Special edition Folios released in small batches appreciate over time on secondary markets.
• Precious metals – Solid gold and platinum models tend to increase in raw scrap value alone.
• Mint condition – Folios kept in ‘like new’ condition retain full collectability and value.
• Complications – Watches with extra functions like repeater chimes are more desirable.
• Signed dials – Watches hand-signed by master engravers or artisans on the dial fetch higher prices.
• Provenance – Watches owned by celebrities or historical figures are highly sought after.

While monetary investment is secondary to the intrinsic enjoyment of owning a Folio, your watch may very well become a valuable collector’s item that increases in worth over decades.

Keeping a Folio Watch Clean

Keeping your Folio pocket watch looking pristine requires gentle care:

• Use a soft brush to remove loose particles and dust from the case, chain, and crevices.
• Wipe down external surfaces a microfiber cloth. Avoid submerging watch in water.
• For metal bracelets/chains, use a dedicated polishing cloth to maintain luster.
• If necessary, use a cotton swab with alcohol to gingerly clean between crevices, lugs, and engraved areas.
• Every few years, have the watch professionally cleaned by a watchmaker to maintain internal parts.
• Take care not to damage delicate vintage enamel dials when cleaning. Use only a soft brush and avoid moisture.
• Replace watch crystals if badly scratched or cracked to restore clarity and water resistance. A watchmaker can help with this.

With frequent light cleaning and occasional deep cleanings by a professional, your Folio timepiece will shine for a lifetime.

Are Folio Watches Water Resistant?

Most Folio pocket watches have limited water resistance:

• Entry-level models are non-water resistant beyond light splashes.
• Mid-range and high end models boast 3-5 ATM water resistance. This allows minor exposure to moisture – light rain or hand washing – but no swimming or submersion.
• Gold cases provide added water resistance due to their non-porous nature.
• Hunter style cases with well-fitted covers protect against higher levels of moisture.

To maintain water resistance, regular case servicing and gasket replacement is recommended. Vintage pieces often have compromised water seals due to case aging and lack original waterproofing.

While not designed for aquatic use, Folio’s quality seals protect against incidental moisture. However, extended water exposure should always be avoided. For true waterproofing, consider a diver’s wristwatch.

The Rich History of Folio Pocket Watches

The storied heritage of Folio pocket watches stretches back over a century:

• Founded in 1895 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland – a watchmaking capital.
• Early models featured convertible cases that could be worn as pocket watches or wrist watches.
• By 1905 Folio had integrated meticulous guilloché engraving and ornate Art Nouveau designs.
• 1920s saw the introduction of minimalist Bauhaus-inspired styles featuring stark geometric dials.
• 1930s-40s saw influences from classical Roman and Grecian motifs.
• Mid-century models embraced bold colors and Space Age symbols in the optimistic 1950s-60s.
• Quartz crisis in 1970s nearly sunk Folio until revived with focus on traditional craftsmanship.
• Today Folio continues to produce limited edition pocket watches that are collector’s items.

Folio endured war, shifting tastes, and changing technologies while staying true to age-old Swiss watchmaking traditions – a rarity that adds allure to the brand’s story.

Warranties and Guarantees

Folio pocket watches are backed by strong warranties:

• New timepieces come with a 2-3 year manufacturer’s warranty. This covers defects in materials and workmanship.
• Limited lifetime warranties are offered on some movements against manufacturing flaws outside of normal wear and tear.
• Water damage or damage from impacts/dropping is not covered under standard warranties. Extended protection plans are available.
• For warranty repairs, the watch must be mailed to Folio or an authorized dealer along with proof of purchase.
• Vintage watches sold ‘as-is’ generally do not come with a warranty. Their values are more subjective.
• Be sure to register your watch on Folio’s website to take full advantage of the warranty duration.

Folio stands behind their watches with comprehensive warranties compared to other luxury brands. This provides peace of mind on your investment.

Winding and Operating a Folio Watch

Winding and operating Folio pocket watches is easy once you get the hang of it:

• Manual wind – Turn the crown gently ~25 times daily to maintain the movement. Take care not to overwind.
• Automatic winding – Normal wrist motion rotates the rotor to self-wind the mainspring. May need supplemental manual winding.
• Setting time – Pull crown out fully and turn clockwise slowly to set hands. Avoid counter-clockwise movement.
• Second hand – Usually has no stop function. Carefully rolling it forward is needed to sync with time signal.
• Power reserve – 40 hour reserve is common. If watch stops, simply wind fully to restart.
• Hunting cases – Flipping the hinged cover open stops the balance wheel to save energy.
• Onion crowns – Elegant vintage models have tiered crowns requiring several pulls to set time.

Wind carefully, set precisely, and operate gingerly to get the most out of your cherished Folio watch.

Great Gift, Heirloom, and Legacy Pieces

Folio pocket watches make extraordinary gifts and keepsakes to cherish for a lifetime:

• Milestone birthday gifts – Marking 60th, 70th, or 80th birthdays with a fine Folio watch is a well-suited traditional gift.
• Retirement gifts – Commemorating one’s career achievements with an engraved Folio watch shows sincere thought.
• Father’s Day gift – Few gifts rival an elegant Folio watch handed down from father to son or daughter.
• Graduation gift – For the promising graduate, a Folio pocket watch signifies arriving into adulthood.
• Wedding gift – Brides and grooms can exchange matching His and Hers engraved Folio watches.
• Family heirloom – Passing down fine watches embodies a family’s legacy across generations.
• Corporate recognition gift – For executives and VIPs, a custom-engraved solid gold Folio makes a special incentive reward.

An investment in a Folio timepiece demonstrates pride in craftsmanship that endures – values worth celebrating through commemorative gift giving.

Movements: Mechanical Masterpieces

At the heart of every Folio pocket watch ticks a mechanical movement of consummate quality. Here are some top options found in Folio calibers:

• Manual wind – Requires winding daily by hand. hallmarks are simplicity, reliability, and affordability.
• Automatic self-wind – Winds automatically from wrist motion. Convenient but comes at a premium.
• Chronometer grade – Superlative movements adjusted to 5 positions with exceptional accuracy.
• Column wheel – Sophisticated vertically aligned levers for chronograph functions. Found in high-end pieces.
• Perpetual calendar – Accurately tracks dates without need for manual adjustment. Complicated feature.
• Moon phase – Shows the moon’s phase in its 29.5 day cycle. Beautiful complication inspiring awe.
• Repeater chime – On-demand chiming of the time by a slide or button. Demonstrates acoustic mastery.

No matter the movement, Folio adheres to Swiss traditions of refinement and precision in their mechanical hearts.

Opening the Case Safely

To open a Folio pocket watch case, follow these safe procedures:

Hunter case:

1. Press down on the crown gently to release the spring-loaded cover. Let it open fully.
2. To close, press the cover down firmly until hearing it click into the locked position.

Snap-fit case back:

1. Wedge the flat blade of a penknife case knife gently into the crevice between case and back.
2. Twist the blade while carefully prying upward to pop the back off.
3. Align the case back into position and press down firmly around the perimeter until it snaps securely into place.

Screw-down case back:

1. Grip the ridges around the case back to prevent slipping.
2. Turn the case back counterclockwise to unscrew it using a rubber ball watch case opener.
3. Once finished, screw the case back on clockwise by hand until snug.

By following proper technique, you can safely access the movement for servicing while avoiding damage. Never force or pry hard.

Replacing the Chain On Your Pocket Watch

The chain on Folio pocket watches can become worn down or damaged over time. Replacing a worn chain is straightforward:

1. Examine where the old chain connects to the watch loops. Note any special connectors.
2. Carefully pull the existing chain from the loops, or open the split keychain style clasp if equipped.
3. Select a replacement watch chain that matches the visual style you want. Measure proper length against your pocket.
4. Attach one end of the new chain to the watch’s loop or clasp, then affix the other end.
5. For fixed bars, slide on the last link and secure with plastic tubing. For split rings, open the end and thread chain through.
6. Give the chain a firm tug to ensure it is securely connected. It should not pull out from the lugs.

Take your time and safeguard the watch when changing chains. With some patience, you can easily give your Folio pocket watch a fashionable new look.

So there you have it – everything you need to know about Folio’s magnificent pocket watches! From intricate craftsmanship to enduring value, these exemplars of portable timekeeping are worthy investments certain to provide enjoyment for life. Whether your first fine watch or latest treasure, a Folio pocket watch will bolster your distinguished style for generations to come.