Horology: An Illustrated Primer on the History, Philosophy and Science of Time, with an Overview of the Wristwatch and the Watch Industry: Seventeen Maryland Rivers

Description

This beautifully illustrated volume provides an in-depth look at horology: the scientific study of time and timekeeping. Horology is a thorough introduction to the world of time and watchmaking. Brimming with more than 150 detailed and full-color images, illustrations, charts, and technical drawings, this book is a must-have for anyone interested in the art of watchmaking and watch design. It includes the requisite exploration and presentation of the rarest, most coveted, and classic watch designs and styles, including Jaeger-LeCoultre, Patek Philippe, Rolex, Cartier, Breitling and many others. Topics include early calendars modern timekeeping the smallest unit of time the twin paradox the golden ratio evolving design, using the Vacheron Constantin 222 as a case study decorative watchmaking techniques, including brushing, chamfering, circular graining, chiseling, and more A multifaceted study, Horology discusses the philosophy and measurement of time, the possibility of time travel, and the emergent smartwatch industry. What once seemed complicated will be demystified through a comprehensive overview of watch movements, complications, and parts. A behind-the-scenes peek into the watch industry, plus pricing and market data, rounds out the contents. Readers will leave these pages with a newfound, renewed, and enhanced love of watchmaking, as well as an increased appreciation for the value and passing of time. A watch is our most intimate connection with time and a way to keep in touch with our artisanal past. Review: Disappointing ! - Not worth the price, most of the book is full of full page photographs of the famous watches. It does not go deeply into the history of watches, just very briefly. Nothing about big breakthroughs or moments in watch industry. It could have been much better. Total waste of money. I am going to return it. Don't buy ! Review: Great book - not just for watch enthusiasts - Truly a great book, and I think would be interesting even if you’re not a clock or watch person. The book has some info on technical details, and great illustrations on the inner workings of clocks/watches (though I wish there had been a few more), but it’s ultimately an art book that guests would likely find interesting even if they have little particular interest in the subject. There are some detailed discussions of time (some a bit philosophical) and clocks generally, but the bulk of the book is dedicated to watches (and the occasional clock). Photography is great, and while the focus is mechanical timepieces, quarts watches, including digital, and smart watches also make an appearance. I’ve read it cover to cover, but it’s a good “pick up and browse” kind of book. I’ve seen a complaint or two in the reviews about the amount of white space. There is, but again, it’s laid out similar to many other books of photography or other art, so hardly anything to complain about.the pho us is on the subjects. Physically, the size is ideal for a coffee table book, and it’s well-made with an eye-catching partially clear cover. Very glad I made this purchase.