Watches: A Guide by HODINKEE

by Hodinkee

We've partnered with one of the world's leading publishers, Assouline, to write our very first book – Watches: A Guide by HODINKEE. For our first attempt into the hardcover world, we wanted to write something that would be as appealing to your great-aunt Susan who knows nothing about watches as it is to your horological nerd brother Carl who won't stop talking about the benefits of a flying tourbillon (we get it, Carl).

We cover everything from the history of watches, to dive watches, travel-time watches, military watches, ladies' watches, dress watches, chronographs, and iconic watches. Each chapter was written by one of our editors so you get a fresh perspective on each topic. The 261-page glossy book is a perfect Sunday read and after you've gone cover-to-cover, it will look just as good on your coffee table for guests to flip through.

This book is best suited for anyone from the horological novice to the horological nut who wants to know everything about watches and their relevance in today's world.

261 pages, Hardcover

Published December 2, 2019

Reviews

[Rob Trump · Rating 3 out of 5]

The best writing on the site is deep-dives into strange niches; kind of by necessity the essays here are more generalist, and even unfortunately overlap info a decent amount. Still, some good pieces here, particularly the intro and the dive and travel watch chapters. Mostly this is for the great photography and archival images and ads, and you know if you’re into that (I am).

[Michael Navarrete · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun coffee table book that gives one an overview of the watch world.

[Caleb Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun, brief, and beautiful introductory look at some of the greatest and most iconic watches ever made. The photography is a feast for the eyes.

[JP · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful book in every way. One star less for some of the missing basics.

[Vatasal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as good as I originally expected. Felt very basic.

[Dominic Leong · Rating 5 out of 5]

A classy illustrated book describing the history behind luxury watches today.

[matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

step aside Tom Ford, there's a new Coffee Table sheriff in town

[Vic Oropeza · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book should be the go-to for anyone looking to learn about horology, but will surely be enjoyed by the most hardcore aficionados as well. HODINKEE have always characterized themselves for enjoyable reads and their first hardcover book is every bit as fun. At no point does it ever get monotonous since every chapter is written by a different editor. Also, the photographs are amazing.

Would completely recommend.