Status symbol and everyday helperHigh-quality chronology of the wearable watch in the 20th century. Alexander Barter, a long-time watch expert at Sotheby's auction house, invites his readers on a journey through time: His high-caliber illustrated book describes the metamorphoses that the portable chronometer has undergone over the course of the 20th century. The book, which is divided into decades, is particularly exciting because it takes a holistic view of technical development, historical background and stylistic trends. In this way, it becomes clear why a Rolex Oyster, a Swatch Jelly Fish, or an Omega Co-Axial so precisely hit the nerve of their respective times. And why some models enjoyed only brief success, while others became coveted collectors' and investment objects.