In this easy drawing tutorial, you will learn how to draw pocket watch details step by step.
We will begin with the chain, then build the round watch body and face.
Take your time with each curved line, and keep your shapes simple.

What You Will Need

• A pencil
• An eraser
• Drawing paper
• A black marker or pen
• Colored pencils or crayons, if you want to add color

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Time needed:

24 minutes.

Step-by-Step Drawing Guide

Step 1: Draw the Basic Pocket Watch Chain

Start at the lower left with a few tilted oval links.

Let each link pass through the next to show the pocket watch chain curving upward.

Keep the lines slightly bold so the watch body can connect later.

Pro Tip: Vary each chain link’s angle slightly so the chain looks more natural.

[Alt Text: A pocket watch drawing begins with a simple sketch of curved chain links.]

Step 2: Add the Pocket Watch Outer Rim

On the right side of the chain, draw two large curved lines for the upper watch case.

Keep the inner and outer curves parallel, and leave the lower part open for now.

This shape helps set the size and placement of the pocket watch body.

Pro Tip: Move your wrist slowly while drawing the curves so the rim looks smoother.

[Alt Text: A pocket watch drawing progresses from chain sketch to a large curved outer rim.]

Step 3: Draw the Pocket Watch Crown

Add a small half-circle crown below the center of the outer rim.

Draw a few vertical curved lines inside it to show a ridged texture.

Then add short downward curves on both sides to prepare the watch body connection.

Pro Tip: Place the crown under the center of the rim so the pocket watch feels balanced.

[Alt Text: A pocket watch drawing refines the sketch by adding a ridged crown beneath the outer rim.]

Step 4: Draw the Large Watch Body

From the top connector, draw a very large round outer case.

Inside the case, add a smaller circle to create the watch face border.

Add a small half-ring on the upper right, like a side loop on the pocket watch.

Pro Tip: Lightly plan the circle’s width first, then thicken the line to make the round shape easier.

[Alt Text: A pocket watch drawing adds the large round body, inner face border, and side loop.]

Step 5: Add the Roman Numerals

Write Roman numeral marks around the inside edge of the watch face.

Place XII at the top, then spread the other numbers around the dial.

These marks make the pocket watch face look more complete.

Pro Tip: Mark the top, bottom, left, and right positions first, then add the other numbers neatly.

[Alt Text: A pocket watch drawing refines the face by adding Roman numerals around the dial.]

Step 6: Draw the Hands and Center Point

Draw a small circle in the center of the watch face as the hand joint.

From the center, add a longer arrow hand pointing up to the right.

Then add a shorter hand pointing up to the left, making the time easier to read.

Pro Tip: Let both hands start from the same center point so the watch looks accurate.

[Alt Text: A pocket watch drawing adds the center point and two clock hands to refine the finished dial.]

Step 7: Color in your drawing!

Fun Facts

• Pocket watches were often carried in a vest or coat pocket before wristwatches became common.
• Many pocket watches have chains to keep them safe and easy to reach.
• Roman numerals are often used on classic clock and watch faces.

Pin it now, Draw later!

Now you know how to draw pocket watch shapes from chain to clock hands.
You can trace your final lines with a marker and erase extra pencil marks.
For a finished look, color the case gold, silver, or bronze, and shade the face lightly.
Keep practicing this step by step drawing, and try drawing for beginners with different watch styles next time.

Get the FREE Printable Drawing Guide

FREE Download Printable Pocket Watch Drawing Tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this pocket watch drawing good for beginners?

Yes, this is a drawing for beginners because it uses simple ovals, circles, and curved lines.

How can I make the pocket watch look more realistic?

Add light shading around the outer case, chain links, and crown to create depth.

Can I change the time on the pocket watch?

Yes, you can point the hands in any direction to show a different time.