Pair-case watch 1690 - 1700

This is a silver pair-case watch, made by Adam Roumeau, sometime between the late 16th and late 17th centuries. During this period, the social and economic landscape of Europe was transforming, with a rising merchant class eager to display their wealth and status. The intricate detailing of this watch speaks volumes about the era’s values and the status of its owner. Note the delicate engravings and the precision with which the watch was crafted. In a time when accurate timekeeping was a luxury, this watch wasn't just a functional object but a symbol of power, knowledge and privilege. It represents a shift in how time itself was perceived and valued in society. Think about the watchmaker, too. What was his position in society? What did it mean to be a craftsman creating objects for the elite? This watch encapsulates a moment in history when technological advancement and social stratification were deeply intertwined. It offers a glimpse into the lives of both those who owned such treasures and those who made them.