Watch 1746 - 1757

This silver watch was made by John Rich, a London-based watchmaker, sometime between 1735 and 1775. During this period, the watch was not merely a functional tool but a potent symbol of status and wealth. As you observe this piece, consider the historical context in which it was crafted. The 18th century was marked by burgeoning colonialism and transatlantic trade, accumulating immense wealth for some, while simultaneously perpetuating profound inequalities. The watch, in this light, can be seen as an artifact deeply implicated in the social hierarchies of its time. Who was afforded the luxury of owning such a piece? What did time mean to those who did not? It provokes questions about labor, access, and the very structures of power that shaped daily life. As we contemplate its intricate design, let's reflect on the stories of those whose time was not their own.