John H. Watson - Popular Character Encyclopedia

Quotes

The reason I deliberately take Watson on various investigations is that he possesses very excellent qualities.
If Watson had been dead, I would have killed you. (Holmes)
Women are your department. (Holmes)
Watson is my biographer.
Partner who walks together again after a sad parting.

Trivia

Watson's middle name 'Hamish' is the Scottish dialect form of 'James'.
The location of his injury varies between leg and shoulder in descriptions, making it a point of debate.
His service pistol is said to be a Webley Revolver.
Many actors have portrayed Watson, and the image changes depending on the actor.
In the Holmes series, Watson has become synonymous with the narrator, giving rise to the term 'Watson role'.

Alternate names

Watson John Hamish Watson John H. Watson

Profile

Species: Human
Gender: Male

Appearance

Overall appearance: Medium height with a sturdy build. Deeply tanned skin. Square jaw, thick neck, and mustache.
Height: Medium height
Eye color: Brown
Hair color: Brown
Distinguishing features: Tanned skin

Mustache

Square jaw

Thick neck
Iconic items: Military revolver (Webley Revolver)

Doctor's stethoscope

Writing instruments

Lodger's proof for 221B Baker Street

Personality and abilities

Core personality: Sincere
Detailed personality: Brave and curious, serving as Holmes's behind-the-scenes support role with high integrity and intelligence. A man of common sense who responds calmly even to Holmes's eccentric actions.
Keywords: Loyal

Brave

Curious

Sincere

Sensible

Calm

Intellectual
Talents: Expertise in medicine

Experience as a military doctor

Fighting spirit

Marksmanship

Writing ability
Skills: Case recording and biography writing

First aid

Basic deductive skills

Negotiation skills

Observation skills (under Holmes's guidance)
Motivation: To chronicle Holmes's exploits for the world and uphold justice.
Favorite foods: Tea, Beer, Light snacks
Hobbies: Rugby, Reading
Favorite places: 221B Baker Street, London
Favorite colors: Brown
Music: Classics
Disliked situations: Not being able to protect comrades in dangerous situations, Holmes's excessive risky actions
Disliked foods: Unhealthy food

History

Backstory: After spending his boyhood in Australia, he studied medicine at the University of London and obtained his doctorate at St. Thomas's Hospital. He served as a military doctor in the Second Anglo-Afghan War and was wounded at the Battle of Maiwand. After returning home, he met Sherlock Holmes through a friend's introduction and began living together at 221B Baker Street. Thereafter, he worked as Holmes's partner and biographer, solving many difficult cases together.
Debut date: June 1, 1887
Work title: A Study in Scarlet
Media type: Novel

Beginning of shared life at 221B Baker Street

Significant event: Beginning of shared life at 221B Baker Street
Description: Began room-sharing with Holmes and became involved in his detective activities.

The Sign of the Four

Significant event: The Sign of the Four
Description: Met and married Mary Morstan. Temporarily left Baker Street.

The Adventure of the Empty House

Significant event: The Adventure of the Empty House
Description: After Mary's death (or divorce), resumed living with Holmes.

Wounded in the Second Afghan War

Significant event: Wounded in the Second Afghan War
Description: Served as a military doctor and was wounded in the Battle of Maiwand.

Relationships

Mary Morstan

Spouse

Married, then widowed.

Sherlock Holmes

Best friend

From solving the case in A Study in Scarlet, became a long-time partner and best friend.

Stamford

Mentor

Friend who introduced him to Holmes.

221B Baker Street Residents

221B Baker Street Residents: unknown

Media appearances

A Study in Scarlet

Novel / Supporting

First published in 1887

Sherlock Hound

Anime / Supporting

1984 TV anime

Sherlock Holmes (2009 film)

Movie / Supporting

2009 theatrical release

Sherlock (BBC)

Anime / Supporting

BBC TV series 2010s

Elementary: Holmes & Watson in NY