Holiday Reading List: 5 Best Books for Watch Lovers

Whether you’re looking for a delightful read or a gift for a watch enthusiast, these are five great watch books to get started.

For any budding or experienced watch enthusiast, information flows abundantly in the vast expanse of the Internet. Not to mention, The Hour Glass watch specialists are always on hand to generously share their insights. Yet, amidst the digital deluge, there exists an irreplaceable charm in the stories of horology, as told through the beautifully illustrated pages of a book by a watchmaker or time connoisseur.

The intricate world of watches traces its roots back to the palaeolithic era, evolving through various forms of timekeeping before culminating in the sophisticated wristwatch we know today. Beyond the realms of history, engineering intricacies, and complications, the allure of design has additionally emerged as a central fascination for collectors. Catering to both enthusiasts and inquisitive minds, we present a thoughtfully curated selection of some of the five best watch books to add to your library.

ALL IN GOOD TIME: REFLECTIONS OF A WATCHMAKER

by George Daniels 

From emerging watchmaker Rexhep Rexhepi to the household name of François Paul Journe, George Daniels has often been cited as an inspiration for many in the watchmaking industry. After all, as the creator of the revolutionary co-axial escapement (and many other notable achievements), Daniels is a legend in the mechanical watch world. All in Good Time follows the rise of this master craftsman who was born into poverty but set out to become the greatest watchmaker of the twentieth century. The book even includes illustrations of over 30 pocket- and wristwatches made by Daniels over the years. It’s a guaranteed page-turner and its recent reprint was organised by David Newman, lifelong friend, Chairman of the George Daniels Educational Trust and guardian of George Daniels’ legacy.

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TIME TAMED

by Nicholas Foulkes

Take a far trip down memory lane and explore the evolution of timekeeping with Nicholas Foulkes who, as per usual, does a fantastic job of storytelling matched lavish illustrations. The historical developments in timekeeping might surprise you – did you know that a sole baboon bone in the palaeolithic era was responsible for marking the start of the lunar cycle? Or how about the tale of the 14th century monk in St Albans who created one of the first mechanical clocks? Time Tamed is sure to be a worthy book to pass time this holiday season. 

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HANDS OF TIME: A WATCHMAKER’S HISTORY

by Rebecca Struthers

Struthers is many things: an award-winning watchmaker, historian, engineer, gemologist and an author. With a keen addiction to education, it was only natural to document her findings on the timeline that resulted in one of mankind’s greatest technological achievements – the watch. Struthers illustrates the chronicles with her lively voice and fresh takes, ensuring that the Hands of Time is more than just a history lesson. 

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WATCHES: A COMPLETE HISTORY OF THE TECHNICAL AND DECORATIVE DEVELOPMENT OF THE WATCH

by Cecil Clutton, George Daniels 

First published in 1965, Watches has been akin to the historical horological textbook for many enthusiasts, collectors and creators alike. Both Clutton and Daniels offer expert insights and personal knowledge on the history of watches as well as its technical aspects within. Additionally, the two included reference illustrations and history as interpreted by the leading horology historians and clockmakers of the twentieth century. Far from merely covering the work of precision, Watches encompasses the decorative elements of watches from the mid-sixteenth to late twentieth century. The chapters on the development of semi-experimental escapements would prove to be a fun read too.

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THE DIAL: THE FACE OF THE WRISTWATCH IN THE 20TH CENTURY

by Dr. Helmut Crott

There is nothing quite surface-level with the wealth of knowledge imparted from the pages of this beautifully-written book by one of the world’s leading watch experts, Dr. Helmut Crott. Originally published in French with the title Le Cadran, it sold out within three days of its release. The Dial is the result of meticulous research on the dial, and the dial alone. Split into three sections, the book unfolds the story of watch dial company Stern Freres and how it evolved into the dominant player in Geneva’s watch dial market; the various complex techniques and materials used to construct a watch dial; and an in-depth look at the dials of some of the most prominent watch models such as the Royal Oak by Audemars Piguet, the ‘Paul Newman’ Chronograph by Rolex and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. Plus, it has Kari Voutilainen and Aurel Bacs’s seal of approval as they have provided the book’s foreword. 

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