Art No Limits is an organisation that celebrates the immense skills of many different artisans. In contrast to the AHCI (Académie Horlogère des Créateurs Indépendants), which solely represents watchmakers, Art No Limits covers a much broader spectrum. The key personnel involved in this creative outlet are Victoria Merki (drawing and painting) Julia Bugueva (poetry) Jury Markin (author) and Torsten Nagengast watchmaker. Essentially the website acts a platform to market their skills and services. As an artist I think it is a great idea to form a cooperative as the overall exposure for the individuals is multiplied.
It is no secret that I am a huge admirer of Torsten Nagengast’s creative talents. In a recent conversation he described many projects that he is currently working on. Ultimately his prime objective is to develop timepieces at all price levels. For example he is in the process of producing a watch constructed from many of the materials used in the automotive industry. He didn’t divulge too much information but said that it would be affordable, lightweight and unlike anything else available on the market. Hopefully I will be able to review this timepiece on Total Watch Reviews in the very near future.
Over the twelve months I have written about two of Torsten Nagengast’s timepieces called ‘The Sound of History’ and Unique Repeater. Both of these exquisite watches were showcased on Art No Limits and are now with their very fortunate owners. Recently he has produced another wonderful timepiece, which in my opinion is even more intricate. The 18K White Gold – Platinum Dragon exudes classical proportions and has a diameter of 44mm. These proportions will definitely appeal to all watch aficionados. I also feel this incredible timepiece would feel lightweight and comfortable on the wrist. Primarily this is down to the elegant case design and use of luxurious materials in production. Realistically this exclusive watch would only be worn for extra special formal occasions.
Visually the 18K White Gold – Platinum Dragon has an exceptional opulent appearance. What makes the timepiece so magnificent is the sublime diamond set 18-karat white gold case and lugs. I absolutely love the ornately decorated skeleton dial, which delicately exposes the vintage movement. There is also a wonderful illustration of a dragon that spans across the open worked balance wheel. Other sublime features include a sub dial with marvelous Guilloché engravings and blue steel hour/minute hands. Overall the composition is astounding and the attention to detail is meticulous.
At the heart of the watch is a highly sophisticated manual winding movement dating back to 1925. This caliber comprises 17-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour. Every individual component has been lovingly restored and reassembled by the finest craftsmen. The mechanism is also visible through the sapphire crystal exhibition case back. Functionally the 18K White Gold – Platinum Dragon features hours, minutes and has an impressive eight day power reserve.
The 18K White Gold – Platinum Dragon has a beautiful brown hornback alligator strap with matching buckle.