The Story behind the Norbee

I found this delightful vintage watch necklace/pendant at one of my favorite local thrift stores. It’s on a long (24") silver chain (does not appear to be sterling), and it is a wind-up watch that still keeps time. The color scheme, silver and black, makes it very versatile.

The timepiece is thoughtfully designed so that when the wearer lifts it up to see the time, the watch face is right-side up with no need to turn it.

After some research, I learned that the Norbee brand was owned by the Sheffield Watch Company in Switzerland. Similar watches were sold along with the Norbee under the brand name Sheraton. The Swiss Society for the Watch Industry (SSWI) was a major shareholder in the Sheffield Company in 1971 and the third largest watchmaker after Timex and Seiko. While much money was spent to market the Sheffield brand, it was unsuccessful, and the factory closed in 1972.

I’ve given this watch a test run and as long as it stays wound (never wind a watch too much, or it will damage or break it), it keeps accurate time. I especially liked wearing it with a simple black dress, but because of its simplicity, the style options are endless.

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