Half Hunter Pocket Watches

Half Hunter Pocket Watches have a hinged cover with a window in the center, so you can read the hour hand without opening the case. Many pair the window with a skeleton dial, and almost all are hand-wound mechanical. Finishes include silver-tone, brass, black and gold-tone, which makes this a steady pick for weddings and milestone gifts.

What is a half hunter pocket watch?

A half hunter, also called a demi hunter, is a hunter case with a window cut into the cover. Numerals are often set around the window, so the hour hand shows through and you can tell the time with the lid shut.

How is a half hunter different from a full hunter or open face?

See Full Hunter Pocket Watches for a solid cover, or browse all Vintage Style Pocket Watches.

Which half hunter finish should I choose?

Brushed silver-tone and brass are the classic looks. A dark case reads more modern; see Black Pocket Watches. Many half hunters also show the movement, as in Skeleton Pocket Watches.

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called a half hunter?

The hunter case is usually traced to riders on the hunting field, who needed a cover to protect the crystal. A half hunter keeps that cover but cuts a window into it, so the watch is half covered and half open.

Can I read the minutes through the window?

Usually the window shows the hour hand and the numerals set around it, so you get the hour at a glance. For the exact minute, press the crown to open the cover. Check the product photos to see the window on each design.

Are half hunter pocket watches mechanical?

Almost every half hunter in this range is mechanical and wound by hand using the crown, so there is no battery to replace. The movement is listed on each product page, so check it before you order if you would prefer quartz.