One of the hottest and most popular fashion accessories going today is that of the wrist watch. Makes like Michele Watches are churning out the highest quality, most fashionable watches anywhere in the world. But, remember that watches have been a staple of the fashion world for well over 100 years.

The wrist watch began its ascension into popularity in the 1920’s. Before that, most people wore pocket watches. Watches began as a functional accessory for the strict purpose of keeping time. However, as time has gone on and cell phones and smart phones have flooded the market, watches are less of a time keeping necessity and much more of a fashion statement.

In the 1960’s watches became electric. The wheel balance was powered by solenoid. It wasn’t until 1969 that the wrist watch industry would change forever. It was then that the wheel balance was turned out and a quartz crystal was put in its place.

As watches began to become more stylized, they also became much more technologically advanced. Watches have even advanced to the point of being used in space travel. The watches were tested for their ability to withstand extreme weather changes.

Wristwatches today are as hot as ever. They are not only a staple of young and hip stars on the red carpet but they are still the measure of class and elegance by society’s elite. While cell phones often keep track of time for most people, it is still viewed as an incomplete ensemble if you do not have your wrist watch on.

So the next time you notice a beautiful watch and comment on its style and innovative technology, know that it has been a long time coming to create the great accessory we can appreciate today.