The Impossible Collection of Watches (2nd Edition): A Monument to Timekeeping
In the world of horology, few books are spoken of with the same reverence as The Impossible Collection of Watches. Now in its second edition, this exceptional volume by Assouline offers an even more comprehensive dive into the art and evolution of luxury watchmaking—curated through the eyes of celebrated historian and author Nicholas Foulkes.
A Legacy in Print
What makes The Impossible Collection of Watches so compelling is not just the subject matter, but the way it’s presented. This isn’t a traditional reference guide or collector’s catalogue. Instead, it’s a deeply considered anthology of the 100 most significant wristwatches of the modern era, selected for their craftsmanship, rarity, and cultural relevance.
Foulkes’ curation spans the giants of Swiss watchmaking—Patek Philippe, Rolex, Audemars Piguet—as well as independent innovators and landmark designs that shifted the trajectory of timekeeping. The selection tells a story not only of mechanical mastery but also of aesthetics, ambition, and historical context.
Photography That Captures More Than Detail
Each featured timepiece is accompanied by high-resolution imagery that goes beyond glossy presentation. The photography captures the patina of age, the reflection of polished metals, the texture of hand-finished movements—every element that makes a watch more than just an object, but a story told in metal and time.
This attention to detail is elevated by the book’s physical form. Encased in a hand-bound linen clamshell and printed on luxurious, tactile paper, the book itself feels like a piece of collectible art—just like the watches within.
Context Is Everything
What sets this second edition apart is its updated content and narrative structure. Foulkes provides historical context for each piece, drawing connections between the watches and the eras they emerged from. These are not just technical marvels; they are cultural artifacts.
For example, a mid-century chronograph might be linked to motorsport heritage, while a tourbillon-laden showpiece reveals the boundaries of what horological engineering can achieve. There’s an arc of progress throughout, showing how design, technology, and collector interest have evolved over the decades.
Not Just for Collectors
While clearly a treasure for serious watch collectors, the book isn’t written in a way that excludes newcomers. Foulkes’ writing is approachable yet authoritative, weaving technical detail with anecdotal richness. Whether you’re deep into haute horology or just beginning to explore the world of luxury watches, the book offers insight and inspiration in equal measure.
A Snapshot of Watchmaking’s Changing Landscape
One of the most interesting elements of the second edition is its inclusion of newer, contemporary pieces—a quiet acknowledgement that horological greatness isn’t confined to the past. It reflects how the canon of watchmaking is constantly evolving, with new names, designs, and complications shaping the future.
In doing so, the book becomes not just a retrospective, but a living document of the industry’s ongoing story.
Final Thoughts On The Impossible Collection of Watches (2nd Edition)
The Impossible Collection of Watches (2nd Edition) is more than a coffee table book. It’s a tribute to the enduring power of design, innovation, and storytelling in horology. For those who find meaning in mechanical mastery and the passage of time, it’s an invitation to reflect, admire, and collect—not just watches, but the moments and ideas they represent.
Whether placed in your library, office, or watch room, this book is a timeless companion to anyone who appreciates the beauty of time well told.
