There were several automatons being displayed at this exhibit, but this bird cage was something else. This is from another age, owned by the Ottoman Imperial Family who ruled their Empire from 1299 to 1922. We think of today's culture as being one of extravagance where the hyper rich can purchase anything they want. It's in seeing this stunning work of artistry and mechanics with its seemingly alive mechanical birds and hidden music box that we realise that we've no idea what true luxury is. Along with the fall of the reign of Kings and Emperors, the era of bespoke pieces like this fell as well . In 1830, before CAD and industrialisation, a team of technicians/artists made this work of art through sheer force of will in the face of technical restraints of the era.

Next time we'll be taking a look at the rare handcrafts and watch art on display at the Saatchi Gallery that show Patek is still committed to creating truly beautiful works of art.