This Wasn’t generally the case. Are you aware that the first wristwatches were being actually worn by women? In 1868, Countess Koscowicz of Hungary commissioned Patek Philippe to create a bit of jewelry that doubled as a watch, setting a female-ahead pattern for timepieces which were concurrently ornamental and functional. https://www.watchesworld.com/11-of-the-best-womens-watches/