Although a predecessor or two exists, the Sony Watchman is generally recognized as the first and most successful line of mass produced pocket televisions.

The original FD-210 model featured a 2-inch Black & White screen that was actually a flat cathode-ray that projected the picture onto the screen from below, unlike most cathode-ray screens that project from behind. This technology was quickly replaced by LCD, which allowed for the introduction of larger, color screens in smaller packages.

The Watchman ran on 4 AA batteries, which provided about 2-3 hours of watchable TV time. Rechargeable battery packs lasted a bit longer. It also featured a flip-out stand on the back so you could rest it on a table for easy viewing. Originally, the Watchman retailed for about $300. And, no, there was no remote!