Watch Art Patek Philippe Grande Exhibition

It seems almost perverse these days to produce an accessory that simply keeps accurate time and pleases the eye. Surely a timepiece should at least be able to let us know how many calories there are in a scotch egg or analyse our sleep patterns? But an exhibition opening at the Saatchi Gallery this week counteracts the tyranny of contemporary technology by celebrating the skills and precision engineering involved in traditional watchmaking. The family-owned company Patek Philippe is marking its 175th anniversary year with a show that featuring hundreds of exquisite timepieces plus a series of themed areas offering a general history of horology as well a detailed insight into the intricate world of watchmaking. The lovely objects on display may be out of the reach of many of us but admission to the show is free so a visit costs nothing but time.