In this episode of In The Metal, we are joined by Patrik Sjögren of Swedish watch company Gustafsson and Sjögren, which produces some of the most inimitable and downright beautiful hand crafted wristwatches in the world.

Born out of the searing hell-fire furnace heat of the bladesmith's forge, each watch is crafted from damascus steel, an ancient metal first used by the Viking warriors for their swords, axes and knives as it was harder (and therefore more deadly in battle) than any other metal.

Less valued by their feared ancestors, who were much more interested in enemy skulls to the gallon, was the inherent beauty of the unique swirling patterns which the forging of layer upon layer upon layer of steels to produce damascus steel created. Needing to be extrapolated from within and developed by hammering,  grinding and sanding down, it is still produced using the same centuries-old techniques, but thankfully it's in much safer hands now with these wonderful Swedish artisans.

We go as close to the fire as we dare to learn about the manufacture of the damascus steel, which is in stark contrast to the delicacy and finesse of the watchmaker's steady hand but which combine to create the exceptional and individually unique watches of GoS Gustafsson and Sjögren.

If you're not yet familiar, In The Metal is your inside scoop on the very best of independent watchmaking, with laid back online conversation with the personalities, innovators and inventors of artisanal horlogerie, where we get talking about watchmaking, life and music.

It is brought to you by @irishwatchguy Johnny McElherron of TheWatchPress.com and the Grammy-nominated rock legend who is the former lead guitarist with thrash metal icons Anthrax, and now present day Master of Complications and the vanguard for US independent watchmaking, Mr Dan Spitz.

Each week we're bringing indie watchmaking into the spotlight, and as well as talking to the greatest names of our time, we're hell-bent on introducing the emerging prodigies, in whose capable hands the future of this centuries-old craft is assured.

If you appreciate an in-house, hand finished insight into the extraordinary world of independent watchmaking, then make sure you are signed up and subscribed to In The Metal right here on YouTube, because we really are the one and only backstage, access all areas, heavy metal watch show.

https://www.inthemetalpodcast.com
https://www.danspitz.com
https://www.thewatchpress.com
https://www.goswatches.com