Repeater watch 1745 - 1755

This repeater watch was crafted by Jean Baptiste Dutertre, its exact creation date unknown. Made from rock crystal and silver, the watch presents a fascinating study in symmetry and opulence. The arrangement of floral motifs across the surface suggests an ordered yet organic structure, inviting us to consider how form and decoration intersect. Dutertre’s choice of materials creates a sense of luxury. The rock crystal, with its clear and refractive qualities, juxtaposes against the ornate silver framework. This interplay introduces questions about value, function, and the cultural codes embedded within such objects. Consider how the watch as an object measures time, but its design transcends utility, becoming an emblem of status and artistry. The intricate details challenge fixed meanings, instead engaging with broader artistic and philosophical ideas about time, wealth and representation. The symmetry of the watch serves not only aesthetic purpose but also as a commentary on the structured perception of time itself. Art then, becomes a mirror reflecting not just beauty, but also the complex interplay of culture and philosophy.