Luke Benedictus
From rags to riches or hero to zero, the redemption narrative is one of the most powerful storytelling arcs there is. And it turns out to be just as effective when applied to inanimate objects, too.?How else to explain the dizzying success of tool-restoration videos on YouTube in which the rusted up carcass of an ancient chainsaw, say, is lovingly nursed back to its former glory.But these extreme salvage jobs are particularly gratifying when applied to the exquisite fragility of a mechanical watch.The description in the “about” section of the Watch Restoration vlog is explained in partially broken English: Professional maintenance technician, share the process of maintenance. Let watch rebirth, is a very enjoyable thing. Sit back and relax into the world of watch repairs.This may not sound very inspirational. But the videos will make your heart soar in a curious way.Faced with the burned out husk of an Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Co-Axial Chronometer that appears to have been exposed to a raging inferno, our intrepid technician takes control.The charred ash is chipped off the face and bezel with a pencil. The movement is popped out and every component brushed with what looks like some form of acid solution to restore the original gleam. The watch is buffed and polished until Well, I won't spoil the details because you simply must take a look. But the result is a resurrection that makes Lazarus look frankly half-arsed.Personally, I found the whole thing both compelling and strangely emotional. After all, everything deserves a second chance.
01.10.21