Pocket watches always come with a dedicated chain or string. First-time pocket watch owners may be confused about how to use it. However, it's a very simple and important step, so we encourage you to use it. The chain protects the watch in case it falls. If you let your watch slip out of your hand without the chain, the delicate watch will likely break from the impact of the fall. If the crystal breaks or the internal mechanism is damaged, repairs will be expensive. For this reason, we strongly recommend using a chain or string.