Watch 18th century

This watch was made by Ferdinand Berthoud, likely in France, during the 18th century, using materials like silver and glass. The watch's case is finely chased and engraved, demonstrating Berthoud’s exceptional skill with precious metals, and glass. The decoration is intricate. Notice the way the silver is worked to create texture and depth. The glass covering adds a layer of protection, but also invites closer inspection of the delicate mechanism beneath. The production of such a timepiece involved many steps. From the initial design to the final assembly, it was a labor-intensive process, involving not only Berthoud, but also a workshop of specialized artisans. Such luxury goods reflect the social and economic structures of their time, where skilled craftsmanship was highly valued, and sought after by the elite. Ultimately, this watch is more than a functional object; it's a testament to human ingenuity, and the rich intersection of art, craft, and commerce.