Time Machines: How Watches Shaped the Modern World

Time Machines: How Watches Shaped the Modern World is a luxury illustrated book about the evolution of watchmaking, published by gestalten in 2025, with 320 pages. This work explores the trajectory of watches from their utilitarian function to becoming symbols of art, innovation, and status. The book presents a curation of 100 iconic watches, spanning over a century of development, from the first wrist models of the early 20th century to contemporary creations that push the boundaries of precision and aesthetics. It is a remarkable example among coffee table books dedicated to design and engineering.

The book is presented in a Special Edition that includes an acrylic case, elevating it to an ideal luxury gift for enthusiasts and collectors. Time Machines: How Watches Shaped the Modern World details how these pieces accompanied cultural transformations, technological advances, and behavioral changes. The narrative engages the reader with detailed images and explores the history of brands and models that became milestones, such as the pioneering watches of Cartier and the legendary models of Rolex.

The text underlines the harmonious coexistence between form and function in haute horlogerie. This volume is not just a book, but an immersion into the universe of haute horlogerie, where every detail reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence and each piece encapsulates a fragment of the history of the modern world. Its quality makes it suitable for high-value corporate gifts.