Technology
Fact-checked

At EasyTechJunkie, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Fob?

Lou Paun
Lou Paun

A fob can be defined as a short strap attached to an object to make the object easier to handle. The watch fob is a good example. Small decorative objects attached to the strap are also called fobs. Sometimes they are used to identify the object; key fobs are a good example of this use. Today, small devices attached to keys are sometimes called fobs.

Before World War I, when wristwatches became available, personal watches were carried in pockets. They were attached to short straps that could be leather, ribbon, or metal chain. The strap made it easier to remove the watch from the pocket and easier to handle the watch securely.

Some people carry pepper spray on fobs.
Some people carry pepper spray on fobs.

Men usually carried their watch in a small pocket on the waistcoat, called a fob pocket. Around 1775, waistcoats had several pockets, and for a time it was fashionable to carry a watch in each pocket. Sometimes only one watch was functional, while the others were merely decorative. The fobs hanging from each pocket became quite elaborate, and small personal seals were often attached to the free end.

In the past, thimbles were a popular decorative fob.
In the past, thimbles were a popular decorative fob.

As chain-style fobs began to be made of jewelry quality metal such as gold, silver, or even platinum, they began to be called watch chains or fob chains. These were valuable objects in themselves. During the Victorian period, fob chains of human hair were quite popular. Many Victorian wives were happy to braid a lock of their own hair into a fob for their husband’s prized watch.

Car key fobs often contain remote starters.
Car key fobs often contain remote starters.

The small, decorative objects that dangled from these chains are highly collectible objects today. Some of these fobs were very simple objects such as a thimble or a pierced coin. Others were finely crafted pieces of jewelry. One gold and platinum fob made around 1915 showed the mask of tragedy on one side and the mask of comedy on the other, with tiny diamonds and sapphires for eyes.

Fobs might have a personal meaning for the wearer. Sometimes they were decorated with an organization’s logo, such as a Mason’s symbol, and would only be worn by a member of the organization. Some fobs commemorated public events. One from 1904 shows an engraving of the Palace of Liberal Arts at that year’s World Fair.

Today, most people wear wristwatches, and the use of watch fobs is rare. The use of key fobs, however, is increasing. Tiny electronic devices allow the wearer to lock and unlock a car, turn its lights on or off, and even start the engine from a distance. Other key fobs act as security devices, sounding loud sirens when triggered. Small vials of pepper spray can be carried as key fobs as well.

Discussion Comments

candyquilt

When I was in school, I thought that a fob was just for decorative items. All of my friends had a fob on their backpack at the time and they would keep little stuffed toys or a coin purse or something on it. That was the trend and I think that trend continues. I see stores selling fob toys all the time. Sometimes I'm tempted to buy them too because they're so cute.

I don't know if this counts as a fob exactly, but the only fob I have as of now is the hand sanitizer that's attached to my purse! That's not very exciting is it?

serenesurface

@Soulfox-- I keep a fob knife too. It comes in very handy. I go hiking and camping a lot and need a knife all the time. When it's attached to my keys or my backpack, I never lose it and pull it out in a jiffy. A fob is such a simple idea but it's so useful.

fify

My grandfather used a watch fob. In fact, my mother had gifted one to him. Although it has become rare, some people still use them and they are sold at some stores or online.

Of course it's not very convenient to use a watch fob nowadays. First of all, modern clothing isn't really conducive to carrying a watch fob. A watch fob was an elegant decoration and it completed an outfit. Many of us dress far from elegant in our every day lives. My grandfather actually wore dress pants, dress shirt and a waistcoat his entire life. The other issue is that fob watches are heavy. I couldn't personally imagine carrying one all day.

Melonlity

A lot of those key fobs are kind of on the way out. Well, sort of. Is it still a key fob if the door locks, alarm, etc. are built into the overall key? I always figured a fob was something that kept something quite small from being lost. A bit old key with electronics built into it is pretty big. It seems we are getting out of fob territory there.

Soulfox

The coolest key fob I've ever owned is a very simple, multipurpose knife with a USB drive built into it. That tool has been incredibly convenient and it eliminates the problem of never having a USB drive around when I need one.

Darn right fobs are still around and they are arguably more useful today than they were when watch fobs were in vogue.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Some people carry pepper spray on fobs.
      By: abhbah05
      Some people carry pepper spray on fobs.
    • In the past, thimbles were a popular decorative fob.
      By: Victoria Short
      In the past, thimbles were a popular decorative fob.
    • Car key fobs often contain remote starters.
      By: staras
      Car key fobs often contain remote starters.