Cable Cars

Question

Do cable car operators still wear a pocket watch on their wrist?

Answer

San Francisco's cable cars are one of the city’s most iconic attractions, and the operators, often called "gripmen," have a very hands-on job controlling the car’s grip and brakes. Historically, cable car operators did carry pocket watches to keep track of schedules and shifts, but modern operations have evolved with technology.

Today, cable car operators no longer wear traditional pocket watches on their wrists. The transit system has updated methods for timing and scheduling, and operators rely on modern communication tools and dispatch systems to stay on schedule. While some operators may carry a small watch for convenience, the classic pocket-watch-on-a-chain image is largely historical.

That said, the traditional uniforms—white shirts, navy or black pants, and caps—remain, preserving the nostalgic look of the cable car system for tourists and history enthusiasts.

Modern cable car operators use dispatch communication rather than pocket watches.
Uniforms maintain the classic appearance for historical authenticity.
Tourists may still see souvenir or commemorative watches themed after the old pocket watches, but these are for aesthetics, not operational use.

In short, the pocket watch is now a nostalgic symbol rather than a functional tool for San Francisco cable car operators.