Hi Bill
I don't use anything fanciful, the super macro shots I took were achieved using inexpensive extension tubes mounted between the lens and the body allowing me to focus closer to the subject/object.
Really nothing special, just need to have the fundamentals right:
A sturdy tripod and a good macro lens. That's it.
Since I'm taking super macros, camera shake and focussing becomes important considerations. I used the camera's timer to trigger off to miniise camera shake, and using manual focussing mode to lock in my object. I only need natural skylight to ensuer good exposure, no flash.
wow la, you got yourself some discreets shots easily!
Here's one I just took, effortlessly 
If I can do it, so can you
Good luck shooting your beloved timepieces and share them here!
Mech.