Men's Watch c. 1660 - 1675

This silver men's watch was made by Jaques Sermand in the first half of the 17th century. Though a small object, this watch speaks volumes about the culture in which it was made. Consider the increasing importance of time in early modern Europe, as trade and bureaucracy demanded ever-more punctual scheduling. This watch is not just a functional object, but a status symbol, demonstrating the wealth and social standing of its owner. It’s also a sign of increasing technological sophistication, reflective of the scientific revolution. But what exactly does it mean to capture time? In the early modern period, we can see the rise of the expert craftsman who is capable of creating a perfect mechanism. To understand this watch more fully, one might consult trade records to establish the price of silver, guild records to understand the training of watchmakers, and social histories to better understand the relationship between time and social class.