The word automat is the Latinization of the Greek word αὐτόματον, which means acting of one’s own will. It is more often used to describe moving machines, especially those made to resemble human or ...

New versions range from ‘disruptive’ models like Jaquet Droz’s Rolling Stones watch to idyllic scenes from Van Cleef & Arpels. By Kathleen Beckett Ask some experts what an automaton is in the watch ...