The Golden Age of Watchmaking – 1940s to 1980s

This video provides an in-depth exploration of the “Golden Age” of watchmaking, defined as the era between the 1940s and 1980s when mechanical timepieces were primarily essential tools. Felix Goldammer analyzes how the technical demands of this period—such as the pursuit of movement accuracy and case slimness—resulted in an aesthetic of functional restraint and balanced proportions. By tracing the industry’s evolution through the Quartz Crisis and the subsequent shift from engineering-led production to brand-focused luxury, the discussion clarifies why vintage watches possess a unique character that is difficult to replicate today. It offers a compelling look at how historical constraints created the “mechanical gravity” and timeless appeal that continue to captivate collectors and horological enthusiasts.