Breguet

This dazzling exploration of the work of renowned horologist Breguet is also a fascinating look at what makes watches and other timepieces tick. Abraham-Louis Breguet invented many of the standard components of today's most prestigious watches, earning the title "The Father of Modern Horology." The self-winding watch, the gong spring, the first shock-protection device, and

the enameled dial--all were created by Breguet. In addition,

he invented the first travel clock, sold to Napoleon Bonaparte

in 1798, and the first wristwatch, delivered to Caroline Murat,

queen of Naples in 1812. Perhaps Breguet's most famous

timepiece is the "Marie-Antoinette" pocket watch, which took

forty years to make and was the most complex watch of its

time. This fascinating, elegantly designed volume features

more than seventy watches and clocks that were constructed

by the Breguet company, and it contains many insights into

the inner workings that made these objects so innovative and

valuable. Engaging essays explore Breguet's personal history,

the technologies he perfected, and his vast international

reputation--which survives to this day. This beautiful overview

of Breguet's achievements will speak to anyone who treasures

their watch--whether as an indispensable daily accessory, or as

a prized piece of jewelry.