For guys who value a mysterious approach to life, a pocket watch tattoo is literally incapable of being usurped. The crafty appeal for these striking icons is practically unlimited.

Pocket watches are turning the page on uninspired body art to herald a truly clever generation of ink for stylishly savvy men.

Their presence usually indicates an intellectual personality, especially since it ties into several popular literary backgrounds like “Sherlock Holmes” and “Alice in Wonderland.”

These timepiece tattoos are gaining adoration due to their steampunk associations. Victorian Era technology is receiving a futuristic renovation via this stunning new wave of skin art. As a bonus, the clock’s face can be set to reflect a special moment. 4:20 is a prevalent choice for its counterculture connotations, but other guys go with the proverbial quitting time or the instance of a sentimental memory.

Most pocket watch tattoos are renowned for their conceptual ingenuity and simplistic execution. These creations are common in black and white, but metallic tones are also being embraced. Wristwatch tattoos provide a cunning alternative to these classic arrangements, and they can be surreptitiously placed under an actual watch.

For more pocket watch ideas that run the gambit from clandestine to ostentatious, just check out our pictorial assembly!

An elegant tattoo mixing up portraiture sizing with the sleek, clean look of realism. This pocket watch is timeless beauty, like a vintage Marilyn Monroe or Rita Hayworth print. The artist applies great skill to create shine effects by clever white line work and smooth gray. The black supporting ink helps provide a sharper focus in detail on the face.

Enjoyable tattoo. Using only the inside of the funky pocket watch for color then making it an abstract take on wheels, cogs, and pins is a brilliant technical choice. It makes an off-beat focal point for the black and gray tattoo and supports the artistic, rather than pinpoint detailed timepiece stay on style.