Fashion Accessory Supreme
Once watches were only expected to tell the time accurately. Horologists spent centuries perfecting reliable, accurate, durable watches that could be carried around.
In the late 20th century they raised the science to such a point of perfection that for all practical purposes there’s no room for advance along those lines.
But watches are more than utilitarian timekeeping devices. They are works of art. Each design is as carefully considered as a Vermeer painting or a Calvin Klein suit.
Each is the unique product of an artist working at one of the most demanding crafts in the world. In a space barely larger than a postage stamp, these artisans create miniature masterpieces.
The watches of the 1920s and 1930s are sometimes touted as the high point of design. It’s true that the Art Deco-inspired designs from that period are among the finest works of watchmaking art ever seen.
The Rolex Oyster and many others are functional and beautiful. But the period of creativity in horology did not end there.
The 1957 Hamilton Ventura, with its unique asymmetric design and 18kt gold striped band - combined with the technological innovation of being the world’s first electric watch - was an outstanding example of art. As fashion accessory it has perhaps been equaled, but never surpassed.
The Pulsar, introduced by Hamilton in 1972, is a more modern example of art and science working in tandem. Its simple face, with LED illuminated numbers, together with a stylish 14kt gold band, made it an artistic marvel to accompany its technical excellence.
Lest you think electronic watches were always just cheap digitals displays, consider that the first Pulsars sold for $1,500 - and sold very well.
The Swatch company, to use one oft-cited example, was founded on the principle that there was still much life in producing a timepiece that had style. Its industrial designers developed an annual series of clever, minimalist designs that astounded the world.
They continue to sell like iPods while displaying a never ending stream of creativity. The company’s innovators have been at it now for over 20 years and show no signs of slowing down. After all, it isn’t too many companies that could convince consumers to wear TWO watches at the same time.
Watches today incorporate all the best of the jewelry maker’s art. Elegant Tonneaus from Cartier may be found lined with diamonds along the perimeter, or striped along the face.
A Movado museum watch, with its stark black face offset by simple gold hands and case, is a perfect accessory for the opera.
Whatever your preferred brand, style or period if you love art in a utilitarian setting, there is no shortage of watches from which to choose.
Having a different watch for every occasion may be the only way out of the dilemma.