The story of the watchmaking master Jacob Guldan unfolded in Pressburg—a cosmopolitan city among three cultures, often visited by Maria Theresa. At that time, Bratislava was experiencing its "golden age."
The measurement of time is as old as humanity itself. Everything alive moves in space and time. Time determines the duration and segments of human life, conditions the way of being, divides the time of wakefulness and sleep, and adjusts the relationship of humans to nature and its phenomena.
Skilled Watchmakers
Watches have undergone a long development not only technically and technologically but also in design. Before starting work, a watchmaker had to know for whom the watch was being made, whether it was for a noble, a burgher, or an institution. The planning process began with selecting the type of watch and then its design. Once the master knew for whom the model was being made, he could plan his work in several phases. He started with design proposals, plans, and sketches. He prepared the individual parts to create the whole. He analyzed the operation of the watches and thought about each of its mechanisms to determine the most suitable type of mechanism for a particular design. The most important part was to assemble the watch movement, dial, and watch case together with any carving or other decoration. In the final phase, he adjusted the watch and set the correct time. Finally, he could deliver the final product to the customer.
Large and Small Watchmakers
Watchmakers were distinguished by whether they made large or small clocks. "Large watchmakers" made tower and room clocks, wall clocks, and "small watchmakers" made pocket watches. In the 18th century, Bratislava was home to several watchmaking masters, among whom Jacob Guldan was the most skilled and productive. Originating from Western Bohemia, Guldan was admitted to the Bratislava watchmakers' guild in 1768 after passing a demanding exam. Master Guldan had extraordinary experience. His hands were his most valuable tool. With his precision, he could detect the slightest imperfection or error, even if it was smaller than a millimeter. Thus, top quality was guaranteed.
Watches from Master Guldan's Workshop
Guldan is considered one of the most skilled and productive Bratislava watchmakers. A large number of preserved works have survived, testifying to his skill and versatility with their diversity and quality. He worked during the transition from Rococo to Classicism. Therefore, his works are diverse. The watch cases always feature an interesting artistic composition, ranging from simple to richly carved finishes, from standing clocks with decorative elements to engraved alarm clocks.
Even today, Guldan's clocks can be purchased in auction houses and antique shops around the world. His products are highly valued thanks to the aesthetic sense and taste that the skilled master invested in his works.
Source: Zuzana Francová, Museum of the City of Bratislava, Pamiatky a múzeá magazine
