Clock-watch with alarm and calendar 1595 - 1615

This clock-watch with alarm and calendar was crafted by Nicolas Forfaict around the year 1600, primarily from gilded brass and silver. The piercing of the brass case to create an intricate, lacy effect speaks to the maker's virtuosity. This wasn't just a functional object; it was a display of skill and affluence, with the precious metals involved reflecting the owner’s social standing. The labor-intensive processes—engraving, piercing, and assembly—highlight the value placed on craftsmanship during this period. These techniques link the piece to a broader history of metalworking, where artistry and engineering intertwine. Such an object signals the rise of a new kind of attention to time, one that was driven by emerging capitalism and the new emphasis on scheduling and productivity. This clock-watch represents more than just telling time; it embodies a shift in how time itself was perceived and managed. Ultimately, this piece encourages us to consider how materials, making, and cultural context converge to imbue objects with meaning. It challenges the conventional boundaries between craft and fine art, inviting us to appreciate the historical and social narratives embedded within.