From the seasoned collector to the self-professed 'watch nerd' all the way to the newbie learning the difference between a chronograph and a chronometre, it seems that we all have a never-ending thirst to learn more about watches. Luckily enough, the internet has provided us with a plethora of horological information that is both super accessible and easy enough to digest. But, there's just something about good old fashioned print that, similarly to a mechanical watch, holds a nostalgic and romantic notion in all of our hearts. We've put together a list of 8 essentials books for the enthusing horologist that covers many different topics, answers many different questions and is well suited to both the newbie as well as the experienced. Enjoy!
The Wristwatch Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Mechanical Wristwatches
Split into two sections, with the first section providing the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the mechanical movement, and the second section focusing on complications, The Wristwatch Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Mechanical Wristwatches is a must have for any enthusiast, regardless of their exposure to horology. If you're going to only ever buy one book on horology, buy this.
A Man & His Watch
Full of stories about the world's most coveted watches, A Man & His Watch was written by Matthew Hranek, a watch collector and New York City men's style fixture. All told, some 76 watches and their respective stories fill the pages of this intimate book. Connecting something tangible with emotion, passion and life experiences is something that A Man & His Watch has done in a way we've never seen before.
Moonwatch Only: The Ultimate OMEGA Speedmaster Guide
Now in its third edition, this is perhaps the definitive guide to the iconic Speedmaster. One of the world's most famous and most recognisable watches, the Speedmaster is explored comprehensively throughout the Moonwatch Only: The Ultimate OMEGA Speedmaster Guide, where the authors give detailed insight and factual pieces of information about one of horology's most definitive watches.
Wristwatches: The Models That Made an Age
Tracking back to the 1900s, Wristwatches: The Models That Made an Age details the evolution of the wristwatch through the years. Looking at 55 of the most celebrated manufacturers and including style icons suchs as the Calatrava, the Royal Oak, the Santos, the Submariner and even the Swatch, the Wristwatches: The Models That Made an Age focuses on the wristwatch's advances in design, technology, daily use and social impact in a beautifully intriguing format.
Watchmaking by George Daniels
Arguably one of the greatest horological texts ever produced, Watchmaking by George Daniels is the definitive guide to all things watch related. Created to inpsire and encourage the traditional art of watchmaking, Watchmaking by George Daniels is a simplified account of the horological processes done in a way that is easy to understand but thorough and well put-together.
The Watch, Thoroughly Revised
One of the authoritative guides on vintage and contemporary watches of the past decade, The Watch, Thoroughly Revised revisits the past generations of watchmaking, along with contemporary events and the overall state of the watch world. Smart, accessible and inviting.
The Impossible Collection of Watches
Created by British historian Nicholas Foulkes, The Impossible Collection of Watches features a selection of 100 timepieces of the last century. It shifts the focus on what's currently in to what defined the horological space over the history of the wristwatch. Featuring gorgeous imagery and an abundance of information, The Impossible Collection of Watches is a real page turner.
Patek Philippe Steel Watches
Written by none other than super collector John Goldberger himself, Patek Philippe Steel Watches features an assortment of some of the most important most interesting steel timepieces created by Patek Philippe. Featuring one hundred and eighty seven examples including current contemporary models, Patek Philippe Steel Watches is truly a journey through the quintessence of Patek Philippe.
This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.