THE WATCH BOOK: ROLEX

by Gisbert L. Brunner

Finally, here is a book about Rolex that evaluates the brand’s history and gives an insight into its success. Hans Wilsdorf was the Bavarian marketing genius and innovator who founded the company in 1905. He was an important contributor to the design of many exceptional watches, as well as technical accomplishments including the famous waterproof Oyster case. Gisbert L. Brunner, a respected wristwatch expert and historian, once again shares his encyclopaedic knowledge. This book is a must for collectors and enthusiasts, or anyone who wishes to become one.

Text in German, French and English | 220 pages | CHF 66

WATCH ADS 1900-1959 PART 1 | WATCH ADS 1960-2000 PART 2

By Marco Strazzi

This book takes an original approach to 20th century watch history, by looking at period advertisements. It illustrates not only how watch design has evolved, but also how communication methods have changed. Most of the watch brands are presented through their publicity images. The ads are supplemented by excerpts from official brochures, catalogues, guarantees and even instruction manuals. Given that the advertisements are often featured in the specialist press, the book includes covers from some of the most influential magazines of their time. The first volume of this comprehensive work also incorporates a list of registered trademarks and watchmakers, with their addresses and registration numbers.

Text in English and Italian | Soft cover.

Vol. 1, 356 pages, CHF 96 | Vol. 2, 310 pages, CHF 88

TIME AND A LIFETIME

By Vincent Calabrese

Vincent Calabrese is an enfant terrible of the watch world. He’s also a genius. In this book he recounts his unusual journey, which began in the back streets of Naples. At the age of 18 he emigrated to Le Locle, where he started working for a major watch company. This was in the early ’60s, before the crisis; there was no shortage of work, and Vincent changed jobs often, moving from one company to another, building up a great deal of experience very quickly. In the 1970s he worked for a retailer in Crans Montana, where he learned about sales, and gained insights into what well-heeled customers were looking for. On the strength of this experience, he realised he wanted to create his own movements. This independent, self-taught watchmaker struck out on his own, and succeeded in selling his first prototype. The remainder of his journey was far from smooth, but it helped to make him the exceptional watchmaker he is today.

Text in English | 128 pages | CHF 35 | Editions Watchprint