Destined from birth to be worn as an object of curiosity and as jewellery, with Huygens’ invention in 1675 of the spiral balance spring, the watch discovered a new vocation as a practical instrument. Less than a century later, however, it again became an important accessory, both for men and for women. From this point on, while watchmakers designed their watches for functionality, jewellers adapted their creations to changing styles and fashions and therefore particularly to feminine tastes.

"Precious Watches" opens with a specialist glossary of over two hundred illustrated definitions. Discover precious watches’ Then and now with Haute Horlogerie and the multiple decorative techniques they employ. Diamonds, precious stones and other gems are presented here, as will some of the famous watchmakers and their emblematic creations.