If one were to argue that time is the most valuable commodity available to mankind, then the keeper of it would rank second. From Egyptians using large obelisks to track the movement of the sun, to our modern-day smartwatches, timepieces have always been a symbol of our technological advancement. But these watches do more than measure time; it is an expression of human ingenuity in the arts and culture, one that feeds our soul and captivates our senses through a unique perspective of style.
We round up some of the best watches that blur the lines between sculptures and timepieces. From Corum's avant-garde Golden Bridge, which sees its movement suspended beautifully in a sapphire glass case, to Bvlgari's Octo Finissimo, a blend of echos of Italian creative, drawing inspiration from the 310 AD Roman Massentius Basilica while conquering new milestones in horological complications.
There is also a modern retelling of the Cartier's Santos de Cartier, a timepiece made for Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who helped popularise the notion of watching watches on your first. And not forgetting the Art Deco-inspired, Reverso Tribute from Jaeger-LeCoultre.
So we gave these watches the treatment they deserved and reimagined them as larger-than-file sculptures in a gallery. With social-distancing and safe practices in place, it could be a while before we have a chance to visit an art exhibition. So till then, enjoy this virtual tour at the museum of these really fine watches.
Photography by Gabe Chen
Styling by Eugene Lim
