Watch 1835 - 1855

This watch, a silver pocket watch with intricate engravings, was crafted by Louis Archinard Bovy in the 19th century. The material itself, silver, is quite telling. The metal would have been carefully chosen and skillfully worked. Silver lends a sense of refinement and value, reflecting the owner's social standing and taste. The small scale speaks to the miniaturization of technology at the time. Consider how it was made: The engraved patterns suggest meticulous hand-tooling, requiring patience and precision, and highly skilled labor. The watch's design is not merely decorative but also functional, reflecting the era's fascination with both aesthetics and mechanical innovation. These objects represented status, and were the product of intensive labor. The object bridges the gap between craft and industrial production. Examining it closely allows us to consider the social and economic context that gave rise to such a treasure.