Introduction
In a remarkable fusion of history, artistry, and horology, the Luxury Watchmaker Bangalore Watch Company has unveiled a collection of 70 limited-edition wristwatches crafted from metal salvaged from India’s first aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant R11. This unique collaboration between Bangalore Watch Company, sculptor Arzan Khambatta, and HEFTY.art not only pays homage to the naval warship’s legacy but also serves as a tangible connection to India’s maritime history.
INS Vikrant R11, an iconic symbol of India’s naval strength and resilience, served the Indian Navy between 1961 and 1997, partaking in numerous combat operations and standing as the first aircraft carrier in any Asian country. With its historic significance firmly etched in the annals of Indian Naval Aviation, the warship’s spirit lives on in the hands of artisans, sculptors, and watchmakers who have breathed new life into its remains.
Renowned sculptor Arzan Khambatta, in collaboration with Bangalore Watch Company, has taken on the task of immortalizing INS Vikrant’s legacy. Khambatta’s creation of 5 unique sculptures that capture the essence of the warship serves as a visual representation of its historical significance. The sculptures, adorned with metal recovered from the scrapped warship, not only resonate with naval enthusiasts but also connect with a wider audience, facilitating awareness about India’s naval history.
Bangalore Watch Company’s contribution to this project lies in the crafting of 70 exclusive wristwatches, each containing a piece of the warship’s history. By incorporating metal recovered from INS Vikrant into the dials of these timepieces, the watchmaker has ingeniously preserved and transformed fragments of the ship into functional works of art. The watches feature marine-grade steel cases, anti-scratch Sapphire crystals, and are powered by Swiss-made Automatic movements, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that have become synonymous with the brand.
Contribution To NFTs
Crucially, both the sculptures and the wristwatches are accompanied by digital non-fungible tokens (NFTs) provided by HEFTY.art, lending an additional layer of security, authenticity, and provenance. These digital tokens, stored on the blockchain, serve as a testament to the origins and history of the collectibles, ensuring their legacy for generations to come.
As Arzan Khambatta aptly puts it, “Each placement carries the Vikrant’s power and passion, honouring its legacy. This sculpture pays homage to resilience and strength, inspiring admiration for bravery and triumph against all odds.” The fusion of art, history, and craftsmanship in this project exemplifies the potential for innovation when heritage is embraced and repurposed.
The announcement of this collaboration has stirred anticipation among art enthusiasts, historians, and collectors alike. With the watches and sculptures available for reservation and purchase on respective platforms, it is evident that the allure of owning a piece of history continues to captivate hearts and minds.
Conclusion
The Luxury Watchmaker Bangalore Watch Company’s journey to transform reclaimed metal into functional artistry, accompanied by Arzan Khambatta’s evocative sculptures, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of INS Vikrant R11. As these limited-edition watches and sculptures find their way into the hands and hearts of individuals around the world, they carry with them not only the weight of history but also the promise of preserving the past for the future.
