Watch 1695 - 1705

This silver watch was created by John May, an English watchmaker who died in 1715. Pocket watches such as this one became status symbols for wealthy Europeans in the 18th century, as only the rich could afford such intricate technology. The watch's design reflects the period's emphasis on precision and order, a shift that coincided with the rise of scientific rationalism. As London grew as a global trade center, the standardization of time became increasingly important for coordinating business and travel. The watch itself can be viewed as a kind of social actor: It subtly reinforced the growing importance of punctuality and efficiency in an emerging capitalist economy. Art historians consult trade directories, probate records, and horological society archives to uncover these histories. Only through this kind of contextual research can we begin to understand how objects like this watch were deeply embedded in the social fabric of their time.