Memories...

I search the internet for Luigi Pippa and come across this photo. Yes, that's me, alongside the Great Master. I had the honor of working with him; because when you're in the presence of a master watchmaker of his caliber, you truly feel privileged. For those who don’t know, he faithfully reconstructed The Astrarium, a clock by Giovanni Dondi that was lost in the 1500s, following the instructions in a 14th-century Latin manuscript. His knowledge and extraordinary craftsmanship allowed him to build three replicas.

One is displayed at the International Museum of Horology in La Chaux-de-Fonds, another in Milan at the Museum of Science and Technology, and the last at the University of Padua. This photo was taken during the reassembly of the Astrarium in Padua. Both my father and I were present, happy and honored to assist him in this work.

I still fondly remember his workshop on Via Durini in Milan—a landmark for collectors of 17th-, 18th-, and 19th-century timepieces. He owned an incredibly rich collection of machines and tools for repairing clocks, as well as an extensive library. Sadly, like all beautiful things, the shop passed away with him.

Thank you, Master.

Giulio Piana