Travelling Watch with an Allegory of Navigation c. 1720 - 1750

This is a travelling watch with an Allegory of Navigation, made by Benjamin Zoll. The piece immediately strikes one with its monochromatic silver hue and intricate engraving. The circular case and dial create a sense of wholeness. The watch transcends its functional purpose, acting as a symbolic representation of the era's fascination with time, exploration, and knowledge. The engravings aren't just decorative; they operate as signs within a semiotic system. The Allegory of Navigation suggests not only physical journeys but also the intellectual and philosophical voyages that defined the period. Timekeeping itself becomes a metaphor for navigating life's uncertainties and the pursuit of understanding our place in the world. The craftsmanship of this travelling watch serves as a reminder that art exists not in isolation, but is interwoven with broader cultural and philosophical currents. The watch invites endless interpretations by future generations.