Watch 1778 - 1795

Daniel Vauchez's "Watch" is a miniature work of art from the late 18th century that depicts the exciting spectacle of a hot air balloon ascension. The watch case, crafted from gold and adorned with enamel and pearls, features a hand-painted scene of a balloon being prepared for flight. This delicate and intricate artwork highlights the fascination with scientific advancements during the Enlightenment era and reflects the growing interest in the possibilities of air travel. The watch, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is a testament to the craftsmanship and artistic expression of 18th-century watchmaking.