A watchtower or guardian in ceremonial magical tradition is a tutelary spirit of one of the four cardinal points or quarters (East, South, West and North).
Originating with the Enochian tradition of John Dee, a version of it was popularized by the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, which became hugely influential in modern Western Esotericism, including Wicca.
In the Enochian system of magic, brought to public attention by Dr. John Dee and his scryer Edward Kelley in the 16th century, was the first instance of Watchtower rituals being used.
As part of the Opening by Watchtower, the practitioner uses the each elemental ceremonial weapon (air dagger, fire wand, water cup and Earth pentacle) to summon the angels of the quarters.
The complicated tablets and Enochian names were largely abandoned, but Wicca retained the watchtowers as "the four cardinal points, regarded as guardians of the Magic Circle.
A special instance of this problem is the circumstance of Wiccans living in the southern hemisphere, who tend to perceive the North, not the South, as the direction most characterized by fire and heat.
Some Neopagans choose to follow the practices of a historical pagan group with whom they identify, or conform to local traditions; either choice may dictate a change of attributions.