Just as it is privilege to be the General Manager of such an eclectic and wonderful museum, so it has been a privilege to work with so many distinguished contributors, colleagues and consultants in the making of this book.

Conceived during our tenth year anniversary festivities, this work is a celebration not only of the richness of the Rahmi M. Koç Museum and its collections, but also of the beauty of industrial heritage, the scientific achievements of mankind, and the genius loci of Istanbul and the Golder Horn.

In devising the format of this volume, we were determined to do more than a conventional pictorial catalogue of the most important objects in our collections: we wanted also to celebrate their beauty and craftsmanship; to add atmosphere and depth by including contenporary documents and illustrations; and to provide periodic food for thought in the form of essays from eminent contributors.