Watch Late 18th to early 19th century

This watch was made by Daniel Jean-Baptiste Dupuis, a Dutch watchmaker who died in 1899. This watch is more than a time-keeping instrument. It is also a historical artifact, reflecting the identity of its maker and the culture of its time. Crafted during an era of industrial advancement, this pocket watch speaks to the shifting concepts of time and labor. In the 19th century, the regulation of time became increasingly important to capitalist structures, impacting people’s daily routines and working lives. Consider the watchmaker, an artisan whose skills were both celebrated and threatened by industrialization. Dupuis's identity is embedded in this piece, showcasing his expertise while also hinting at the socio-economic changes affecting artisans. This watch captures the tension between individual craftsmanship and the standardization of time in a rapidly changing world.