Half Hunter Pocket Watches

Half Hunter Pocket Watches

A half hunter has the same hinged lid as a full hunter, with a round window cut through the middle of it. The hour numerals are often set around that window, so you can read the position of the hands with the case still closed, and only open the lid when you want to see the whole dial. It is the compromise style. The glass stays protected in a pocket, but you are not flicking the lid open every time someone asks the time. You will also see the design sold as a demi hunter, which is the same thing under a different name.

Half hunter, full hunter and open face compared

Three case styles, and the only real difference is the lid. An open face pocket watch has no cover at all, so the dial is always readable and always exposed. Full Hunter Pocket Watches have a lid closed all the way across, which gives the most protection but has to be opened each time you check the time. A half hunter sits between the two and is usually the safe answer if you are choosing a first pocket watch and cannot decide. The rest of the range is under Vintage Style Pocket Watches.

Movements and dials

Almost every half hunter we stock is hand-wound mechanical. Turn the crown clockwise until you feel firm resistance, then stop, and keep to roughly the same time each day so the watch does not run down; there is no battery to replace, and the movement carries a 12-month warranty. Most of these also have a cut-away dial behind the lid, so they double as Skeleton Pocket Watches and you can watch the gears turning through the window. Finishes are plated and tone finishes rather than precious metal, in polished and brushed silver-tone, brass, black and gold-plated.

Gifting, chains and delivery

Half hunters do well as wedding, anniversary and milestone gifts, and our best sellers in this category are the polished silver and brass dial pieces, which suit a waistcoat or a suit pocket without shouting about it. A matching chain is available for every watch and is not included, though orders over $100 receive one free; the full selection is under Pocket Watch Chains. In-stock pieces are dispatched from Brisbane within 1 to 2 business days, free Express Post applies on Australian orders over $60, and unworn watches can be returned within 60 days.