The Mastery of Time

The art of time measurement requires considerable patience; describing its progress does too! After years of research and study, Dominique Fléchon presents The Mastery of Time, a major work that traces timekeeping from its origins to the present day. This complete and easily-readable history fills a void of more than half a century in publications on this theme.

Whether you’re a novice, a seasoned collector, a professional, or not at all technically-minded, all that matters is your interest in the measurement of time. This lavishly illustrated book addresses its subject both chronologically and by theme. Short, stand-alone texts spotlight a particular topic while the main body of text provides an up-to-date history of timekeeping. The techniques of watchmaking are alluded to more than they are described, thus facilitating understanding. A detailed glossary and index provide additional information as required.

Dominique Fléchon has compiled a complete history of horology that includes non-mechanical clocks and, unusually, contemporary wristwatches. This expert has studied them one by one, from the very first timekeeping instruments to the modern-day watch. Forget about the 30-year gap that usually separates a new book on horological history from the models of today: The Mastery of Time brings readers up to the present and suggests what the future might hold.

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