Behind almost every beautiful watch there is a beautiful story: the origins of a cult model, the personalities who helped to forge the myth of another, the ups and downs of a specific brand…
So, if you like not only beautiful tocantes but also small stories within the big one, here are 5 books that will allow you to have a new look at iconic watches and watchmaking companies.
In the world of watchmaking, we sometimes recognize the success of a watch by the nicknames that have been attributed to it (more or less officially). As such, the best known is undoubtedly the GMT-Maste…Read more
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
Everything has already been said and resaid about Rolex and many tributes try to ride on the enthusiasm generated by the brand with the crown. However, it was not until 2024 that the first book authorized by Rolex on the subject of its legendary Submariner was published.
At almost the same time, it was Watchfid which attacked another Rolex icon with these two gigantic volumes dedicated to the Cosmograph Daytona. Authors Anthony Marquié and Grégoire Rossier, already known for their rigor and passion, offer here an exhaustive exploration of this cult chronograph which celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2023.
The first volume delves into the world of manual-winding Daytos (1963-1988), while the second dissects the automatic versions (1988 to today). The two works, richly illustrated, not only tell a story, but also offer an essential tool for collectors thanks to a unique analysis methodology. With their careful aesthetic and precision, these books are already establishing themselves as essential references for Rolex enthusiasts.
LIP – Hours to tell
For fans of French watchmaking, LIP is a brand at least as interesting as Rolex. Its history, told in this book by Marie-Pia Coustans, spans the centuries, from the foundation in the 18th century in Besançon to the modern era under the leadership of SMB. We discover emblematic models like the Himalaya, the Nautic-Ski or even the futuristic MACH 2000 (a good way to remind you that the T18 Churchill is not the only watch worthy of interest at LIP).
This third updated edition broadens the spectrum with new models and a dive into the technical and human challenges encountered by this iconic house. Richly illustrated with more than 400 watches, this book is a declaration of love to a brand that has managed to combine innovation and tradition. Enthusiasts will appreciate both the anecdotes and the technical details of the pieces presented.
The vintage watch guide
Journalist at Le Figaro, Judikael Hirel is one of the great French watchmaking specialists. A personality that we have already had the opportunity to meet on several occasions during presentations and other trade shows, who is now releasing a new book dedicated, as its name suggests, to vintage watches.
-More than a simple catalog, this work is a passionate exploration of vintage watches, their stories and their timelessness. Legendary divers, military watches or elegant classics, all categories are explored with precision and accessibility. This guide also stands out for its desire to democratize the subject, proving that the passion for watches is not limited to overpriced pieces..
Judikael Hirel here invites his readers to discover little-known treasures and immerse themselves in a universe where each watch tells a unique story. And the subtitle of the book then appears as an obvious invitation: “It’s time to treat yourself!” »
One man, one watch
As we said in the introduction to this article, behind every great watch hides… a great man! In this book, Matt Hranek looks at some of the most iconic models of the 20th century, told by the men who wore them.
Each page reveals fascinating stories, combining charismatic personalities and watches that have become legendary. Stylish photos illustrate the anecdotes, adding a visual touch to this already captivating story. Whether it is Paul Newman et sa Daytonaor from JFK and his Cartier Tankeach chapter highlights the unique bond between a watch and its owner. A dive into the world of watchmaking, where elegance meets emotion.
Ferrari and Watches
Finally, we often compare beautiful watch mechanisms to beautiful automobile mechanics, luxury watches ultimately having a lot in common with supercars and racing cars of all kinds.
Reading this book by Rémy Solnon confirms this, with a unique dive into the history of collaborations between Ferrari and the greatest watchmaking houses. From tailor-made creations offered to drivers by Enzo Ferrari himself, to recent partnerships with brands like Panerai, Hublot or Richard Mille, this book traces a saga where precision and prestige intertwine. Let's remember that just a few months ago, it was the Richard Mille RM UP-01 Ferrari which held the record for the thinnest watch in the world!
Prefaced by François Allain and rich in 450 illustrations, this work will delight watch enthusiasts as much as enthusiasts of exceptional cars. In short, a real gem for fans of elite mechanics.
We could still have added many works to this list, starting with the great classic of the genre, the Annual of Watches, whose 2025 edition (the twenty-fifth!) presents more than 1,200 models of watches and movements from of 170 luxury brands!
In another register, the very beautiful series The Millennium Watch Book welcomes a new book dedicated to GMT watches at the end of 2024. Ultimately, the objective is to tell everything you need to know about watchmaking since the year 2000, through a collection presented thematically every year until 2030!
