Arnold and Son DBG 1DGAP.W01A.C120P Watches

Paper cutting is a Chinese art that dates as far back as the second century CE. As a form of decoration, people at all levels of society would cut intricate patterns into paper - most frequently in red, which is a colour associated with celebration in China. The designs would then be mounted on walls or windows, creating elegant patterns as light shone through them. Paper cuts symbolise luck and happiness, and as one of the oldest and the most popular forms of folk art in China, the tradition is deeply engrained in Chinese culture.

The wandering hours complication isn’t new. It dates back for centuries, first appearing in the mid-17th century as an example of early horologers experimenting with watchmaking and the ways in which they could indicate the passage of time.

Arnold & Son timepieces are inspired by great British watchmaking heritage, in particular the work of 18th century master horologers John Arnold and George Graham. In recent years, the brand has created some truly superb watches, all paying homage to time-honoured tradition, while updating it for the modern watch market. The TES Blue Tourbillon, part of the brand's Royal Collection, is staying true to this ethos.

I'll be totally honest - I'm a sucker for all things futuristic. Strap the likes of the MB&F HM6 Space Pirate to my wrist, and I'll be happy as an Ewok on Endor admiring its brilliantly science fiction approach to telling the time. But such contemporary creations are only possible because of the long and winding history of horology, that established a tradition upon which modern watchmaking is based, and is integral to its future. Sometimes it’s nice to be reminded of where we started, and that's exactly what Arnold & Son has done with the Time Pyramid.