STERLING SILVER STRAIGHT POCKET WATCH CHAIN WITH T-BAR

Straight chains are the most elementary of the pocket watch chains, as they don't have the additional "arms" or "drops" characteristic of the Albert or Double Albert chains. Although available in different lengths, the chains are meant to be worn draped as opposed to pulled taught.

The t-bar, made to be passed through a buttonhole, is the earliest form of connection between the pocket watch chain and the wearer's vest or shirt; it predated the spring ring and various clips used afterwards.

Fancy or ornate t-bars tend to be worn from the inside-out (to make visible and display the t-bars, as shown below); standard t-bars are usually worn outside-in (so they aren't visible).