This talk will explore how the objects history leaves behind can be used to explore the world they existed in. Using forensic analysis to look for hidden clues inside early C18th mass-manufactured watches - practising-watchmaker Rebecca Struthers will reveal the moment access to portable time started its journey towards democratisation. By weaving the physical evidence in with archival sources, this talk will explore the transformative social impact watches had in the UK during the Industrial Revolution.

Rebecca is a multi-award winning watchmaker and researcher. She co-founded Struthers Watchmakers in 2012 with her husband and fellow horologist Craig and, in 2017, became the first watchmaker in British history to earn a PhD in the field of horology. Her work has earned international acclaim and recognition resulting in her recent book deal to write a history of horology. Called Hands of Time, the book is scheduled for release in 2022 by Hodder (UK), HarperCollins (US), Penguin Verlag (Germany) and Garzanti (Italy).

Photo credit: Asia Werbel for John Smedley