I am reading ‘All in good time’, an autobiography by George Daniels, one of the most renowned watchmakers of modern times. He rose from humble beginnings to achieve serious recognition in many quarters as one of the best watchmakers in the world.
In watchmaking circles, Daniels received critical acclaim for inventing the coaxial escapement – a signal moment in the history of the watch industry.
Daniels’ writing style is cool and not overly emotional. He deals with difficult issues in a phlegmatic, matter of fact way. He had a tough upbringing, with very little affection from his parents, and he addresses this without any great show of emotion or regret. Things were as they were, and that was that. This is pretty much the attitude he takes.
He addresses many technical elements of watchmaking, but in a way that is accessible to non-specialists. Possessed of a mechanical mind, he also thrills the reader with tales of acquiring and restoring old Bentleys – a great passion of his.
I am halfway into the book. His writing style does not hurry the story along, but he does this in a way that does not cause impatience in the reader. This is not a book you would want to rush through, in any case. I am content to match his pace, and let him lead the way through his inspiring tale.
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