1. Fashion: Pocket watches were considered more fashionable and elegant than wristwatches during the 18th and 19th centuries. They were often seen as a symbol of status and wealth, and were often adorned with intricate engravings, enamel work, and precious stones.
2. Social Norms: Social conventions of the time dictated that men should keep their personal items, including watches, out of sight. Pocket watches could easily be tucked away in a waistcoat or trouser pocket, making them less ostentatious than wristwatches.
3. Durability: Pocket watches were generally more durable than early wristwatches. They were protected from the elements and rough handling by being kept in a pocket, and were less susceptible to damage from bumps and falls.
4. Accuracy: Early wristwatches were not as accurate as pocket watches. Pocket watches were often equipped with larger balance wheels and more intricate movements, which allowed for greater precision in timekeeping.
5. Convenience: For men who wore waistcoats or jackets with pockets, pocket watches were easily accessible and could be quickly checked without having to remove an outer layer of clothing.
However, as wristwatches became more reliable, affordable, and widely accepted in the early 20th century, they gradually replaced pocket watches as the preferred timepiece for men.