The Watch: Stories and Savoir Faire

This ultimate reference on fine watchmaking offers a comprehensive overview of the history and anatomy of luxury timepieces. Taking readers behind the scenes to discover the captivating realm of mechanical watches, this indispensable reference provides rare insight into the world of fine watchmaking. Designed for watch enthusiasts, experts, and industry professionals alike, the book examines every detail of the anatomy of the watch through informative text and photographs that highlight iconic models and innovations from the range of fine watchmaking brands. Each facet of the watch—dial, case, strap, movements, complications—is explained through key concepts or features, from face displays or hands to engravings or case materials, and from escapements or powering movements to the three families of complications. This encyclopedic work celebrates the watchmaker’s savoir faire—through historical accounts and archival documents, interviews with technical experts and specialized artisans, definitions of major horological terms and fascinating anecdotes, newly commissioned photographs and modern illustrations by Arthur Junier. This groundbreaking volume is essential reading for aficionados of watches and fine watchmaking and its publication coincides with the 150th anniversary of Swiss luxury watchmakers Audemars Piguet.