Watch chains were the most opulent and striking jewellery worn by men. They were inspired by the outfits worn by the upper classes. Pocket watches also became popular in rural areas from 1750. Most have silver casings and decorative engravings. 

In old Bavaria, so-called “Charivari chains” were especially popular. The term Charivari comes from the French and means something like hotchpotch. These striking chains jingled and rattled with set stones, symbols of love, amulets such as the fig sign, hunting trophies, pilgrimage souvenirs and coins.