
Norman Rockwell Limited Edition Lithograph:"The Watchmaker of Switzerland (1978)"

Norman Rockwell's "The Watchmaker of Switzerland" Limited Edition Lithograph
Experience the timeless artistry of Norman Rockwell with this exquisite limited edition lithograph. Originally an oil painting from 1948, "The Watchmaker of Switzerland" captures the essence of craftsmanship and curiosity that defines Rockwell's iconic style.
Product Details
- Artist: Norman Rockwell
- Title: The Watchmaker of Switzerland
- Edition: Limited to 2,500 | Hand numbered | Printed signature
- Medium: Lithograph
- Published: 1978
- Paper size: 33" x 25"
- Image size: 21" x 21"
- Condition: Mint
- Framing: Unframed
- Authenticity: Includes certificate of authenticity
Artistic Legacy
This authorized reproduction features a printed signature that mimics Rockwell's hand-signed works. The original painting sold for a record-breaking $937,500 at Sotheby's in 1996, showcasing its enduring value and appeal.
Historical Significance
Commissioned by The Watchmakers of Switzerland, this piece was part of a global marketing campaign that graced the pages of The Saturday Evening Post and Life magazine. Rockwell himself considered it "One of my best, I think". The Franklin Mint was the publisher of Norman Rockwell limited editions around 1978. In 1970, the Franklin Mint commissioned Rockwell to create a series of works for the company, which continued until his death in 1978. This partnership resulted in the production of prints and collectibles, with The Franklin Mint seeking to bring art and collectibles to the masses. The collaboration between Rockwell and The Franklin Mint was successful and lucrative, as both were considered American 'brands' with aligned interests.
Norman Rockwell's "The Watchmaker" (also known as "What Makes It Tick?") was a significant painting created in 1948 as a commission for The Watchmakers of Switzerland. The original oil on canvas work measures 26 1/4 x 26 inches (66.7 x 66 cm) and depicts an elderly watchmaker intently focused on his craft while a young boy observes him through a shop window.
Key aspects of the painting include:
1. Symbolism: The watchmaker can be interpreted as an avatar for Rockwell himself, representing the meticulous nature of his own artistic craft.
2. Themes: It explores the passage of time and the relationship between generations, a recurring theme in Rockwell's work.
3. Technical mastery: The painting showcases Rockwell's skill in depicting various textures and surfaces, particularly glass[
4. Historical significance: It sold for $7.3 million at a Christie's auction in 2017, exceeding its pre-sale estimate of $6 million.
The painting remains a celebrated example of Rockwell's ability to capture American culture and values through his iconic illustrative style.
Investment Potential
While this print bears a printed signature, hand-signed versions of this lithograph can command values up to $15,000, highlighting its collectible nature.
Own a piece of American art history with this stunning reproduction of Rockwell's masterful portrayal of precision, curiosity, and the passage of time.