The Watch Book

The Watch is a richly illustrated exploration of the evolution of the wristwatch throughout the twentieth century. Written by Alexander Barter, it traces the rise of the wristwatch through defining moments in history, from the impact of the 1929 Wall Street Crash and the subsequent golden age of watchmaking to the arrival of electronic watches and the later resurgence of traditional mechanical timepieces.

Organised by decade, each chapter explores the key styles, design movements and developments in watchmaking that shaped its era. Hundreds of colour photographs, including detailed full-page close-ups, showcase the craftsmanship, form and intricate details of some of the world's finest watches. Vintage advertisements and promotional material add further historical context, making this an engaging reference and a beautiful gift for watch enthusiasts and collectors.

• Written by Alexander Barter
• Explores twentieth-century watchmaking
• Organised chronologically by decade
• Covers major developments in watch technology and design
• Hundreds of colour photographs
• Detailed full-page watch photography
• Includes vintage advertisements and promotional material
• Explores different genres and styles of watches
• Ideal gift for watch enthusiasts and collectors

Free shipping on purchases over $150.

We offer same day dispatch if ordered prior to 2pm, the exception is weekends and public holidays, when we will dispatch on the next weekday.

Free shipping excludes international and oversize purchases.

We can ship to virtually any address in the world. Note that there are restrictions on some products, and some products cannot be shipped to international destinations.

If shopping internationally or for oversize items: When you place an order, we will estimate shipping and delivery dates for you based on the availability of your items and the shipping options you choose, alternatively contact office@thomass.co.nz for a quote.

Please also note that the shipping rates for many items we sell are weight-based. To reflect the policies of the shipping companies we use, all weights will be rounded up to the next full dollar.

RETURNS

Here at Thomas’s Department Store, we understand that you may wish to return an item or purchase from time to time.

You have 5 business days, from original date of purchase, to complete an in-store exchange or return. Online exchanges or returns must be returned to us for processing within 10 days, from original date of purchase.

Full price items are eligible for an exchange or store credit.

Sale, Swimwear, Underwear, Earrings, Sunglasses, Skincare, Personal care items, Consumable goods and Custom orders will not be returned or exchanged.