Hands of Time

5/5 A true joy. A work of staggering complexity and bewildering economy. A rattling, wonderful read. Every page glitters. Mesmerising. An exquisite book, beautifully put together... What a very wonderful book. Absolutely gorgeous. It blew my socks off. An intensely personal, finely-tuned meditation. A beautiful book. Beautiful, bewitching and brilliant.

In "Hands of Time," watchmaker and historian Rebecca Struthers welcomes us into the hidden world of watchmaking and a history of time that spans centuries and continents. The invention of timepieces was more significant for human culture than the printing press or even the wheel. They have travelled the world with us, from the depths of the oceans to the summit of Everest, and even to the Moon. They regulate our daily lives and have sculpted the social and economic development of society in surprising and dramatic ways.

From her workshop bench, Rebecca explores the ways in which timekeeping has indelibly shaped our attitudes to work, leisure, trade, politics, exploration, and mortality, and introduces us to some extraordinary devices, each with their own story to tell. "Hands of Time" is an intricate exploration of the history, science, philosophy, and craft of timekeeping.