Horloge 1930

Editor: This photograph presents a silver pocket watch titled "Horloge," dating back to 1930, made by Roskopf. The clock face displaying hebrew characters in place of numbers creates a distinct cultural identity. What stories might this unconventional clock tell us? Curator: It whispers of cultural memory, doesn’t it? Time itself is being measured through a specific lens, in this case, using Hebrew letters instead of the familiar numerals. How do you think this changes our perception of time itself? Editor: That's a great question. It almost feels like time is being reclaimed, or perhaps protected, within a specific cultural context. Do the particular Hebrew letters used carry any significance, or do they simply stand in for numbers? Curator: It's more than a simple substitution. The letters themselves are imbued with meaning, with historical weight. Think about the Kabbalah and the mystical tradition’s emphasis on letters as building blocks of creation. Each letter possesses inherent value. Do you see any particular arrangement of letters that draw your attention? Editor: Now that you mention it, the letter 'Shin' appearing around 2 o'clock jumps out to me due to its unique shape and prominence. But, also I guess the entire set of symbols could give clues regarding origin and/or maker and other possible symbology from the time it was made? Curator: Precisely! That awareness and connection to a possible cultural touchpoint. Its presence there, replacing what would typically be the number two, might serve as a signature of sorts. Overall, this object serves as a marker, holding individual and collective experiences that can trigger memory or identity. Editor: Thinking about the Shin makes me rethink how objects embody culture and time more than just practically. Thanks for broadening my viewpoint! Curator: It works that way with me too. The pleasure is mine!