This impeccably researched and lavishly illustrated book traces the evolution of the watch across the twentieth century. It charts the early rise of the wristwatch, shows how the cataclysmic events of the 1929 Wall Street Crash unexpectedly led to a golden age of watch production, and demonstrates how the electronic watch, which almost destroyed the traditional industry, led to a mechanical watch renaissance in the last part of the century.

Each chapter focuses on a specific decade, opening with an introduction to the era’s stylistic and design highlights and then examines the development of specific genres of watches.

Hundreds of color photographs include full-page close ups that reveal intricate details of form, texture, and design. Alexander Barter’s vast knowledge informs his gripping texts, which discuss the major achievements in watch technology and design.