Book Watches: Impossible collection by Assouline

Description

In this stunning new addition to the Assouline series, British historian Nicholas Foulkes has selected the 100 revolutionary " timepieces" of the 20th century, weighing the virtues of rarity, cost, innovative features, historical significance, great provenance and pleasant design. The watch - a microcosm of hundreds of tiny components interacting harmoniously with each other and linked in a precious metal case - has the power to awaken emotions, excite the imagination and inspire the same passion as the great art. Beautiful watches invite us to join a story, and the story that these 100 examples unfold is that of one of the most exciting and dynamic periods in human history.

These miniature machines reflect the incredible technological advances and social changes of the last century, from the invention of the airplane to the effects of two world wars, the advent of space exploration and the dawn of the digital age. Featuring illustrious names such as Audemars Piguet, Blancpain, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Patek Philippe, Rolex and Tag Heuer, these 100 " timepieces" include the Omega Lawrence of Arabia aviator's chronograph from 1915, the Breitling Cosmonaute from 1962 and the 'Ulysse Nardin Astrolabium from 1985. This oversized, hand-bound deluxe edition features hand-printed images and is presented in a linen clamshell case.

Exclusive white gloves and canvas tote bag are included with every purchase of an Ultimate Collection book.

Details