Tieger, Norbert: Horloges anciennes
Paris: Flammarion, 1991.
ISBN 2-08-201-921-7
French edition of the original Grandi Orologi, published in 1990 by Idealibri, Milan. Translated and adapted by Thomas Gravemaker.
From the first mechanical clocks of the 13th century through the refined and elegant pendulums of the Renaissance to the invention of electric clocks and mass production, this work traces the history of European clockmaking. For the first time, a collection of outstanding pieces made by the most important clockmakers, craftsmen and artists in Europe is presented.
On display are primarily clocks from the 18th century, including large wall clocks with porcelain dials, small table pendulums made of tortoiseshell and bronze, Italian night clocks, English bracket clocks and French rococo pendulums with elaborate floral decorations. The objects reflect the masterly craftsmanship and technical perfection of their time.
Particular attention is paid to the links between clockmaking and astronomy, physics, mathematics, economics and society. From early megalithic monuments to the heyday of the 18th century and the development of complex movements, a continuous search for precision and reliability is documented.
With high-quality illustrations and precise technical and aesthetic descriptions, Horloges anciennes is a good reference work for the fascinating cultural history of watchmaking.