Apart from being passionate about watches and the world of horology my other great interest is fine art. My painting style is very meticulous and involves many thin layers of oil paint to achieve the desired results. Even though the subject matter is contemporary the style adheres to age-old traditional techniques. What I have discovered recently is that fine art is very similar to watchmaking. Ultimately this inspired me to become a watch writer and establish Total Watch Reviews.
Over the last few months I have written numerous articles about small (one man) boutique brands. Fascinatingly some of these artisans only produce around 50 timepieces a year. For that reason their creations are highly exclusive and in some cases one of a kind. In my opinion these watches are true limited editions rather than being part of an effective marketing strategy. Last month I wrote an article for Esquire Magazine (Singapore/Malaysia) entitled ‘Independent Watchmakers’. The editorial included rare timepieces by Frank Heydrich, Richard Paige, Stepan Sarpaneva, Fred Dingemans and Torsten Nagengast. Interestingly this is the first time these watches have ever appeared in a printed publication.
Back in September 2013 I wrote an article featuring Torsten Nagengasts’ sensational Unique Repeater Watch. I am a huge admirer of his work especially his custom made timepieces. Recently he published images on Facebook of an exquisite new watch called ‘The Sound of History’. Dimensionally the timepiece is smaller than the Unique Repeater Watch measuring only 43mm x 12mm. This piece was specifically designed to collectors precise specifications. Due to the fact the watch combines luxurious platinum and lightweight titanium I suspect it would be very comfortable to wear.
Visually ‘The Sound of History’ has an exceptionally high quality appearance that is normally only found in much more expensive timepieces. What makes this watch so magnificent is the handcrafted titanium and platinum skeletonized dial. This striking characteristic perfectly exposes the intricate mechanical movement. I love details like the engraved chapter ring and small second counter (located at 9 o’clock). Other features include blued steel hands, sapphire crystal and a stylish crown. Overall the composition is refined and the level of finishing is absolutely first rate.
To power the watch Torsten Nagengast has sourced a historical Patek Philippe Minute repeater movement (originally made for Tiffanys in New York) dating back to 1914. The caliber is hand winding and oscillates at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour. This exquisite mechanism has been fully restored, decorated and assembled by a master watchmaker. It can also be showcased through the sapphire crystal exhibition case back. Functionally ‘The Sound of History’ features hours, minutes, small seconds and a minute repeater.
‘The Sound of History’ has a high quality black leather strap and is a unique 1/1 piece.
