Tortoise automaton the size of a watch and adorned with jewels

Master watchmaker Raúl Pagès has set himself a goal: contribute to historical continuity and uphold the centuries-old tradition of prestigious automata. Marvel at the amazing craftmanship that went into making this gorgeous jewel-encrusted tortoise automaton!

From the video description:

Master watchmaker Raúl Pagès unveils his first creation, the "Tortoise" automaton which moves thanks to a mechanism similar to a watch movement. With this unique piece, entirely manufactured in Switzerland, the independent brand PAGÈS brings back to life the forgotten tradition of prestigious automatons.

Here is where you can learn more about Raúl Pagès creator of automata and master watchmaker.

[ Thanks Larry! ]

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Giant hand-cranked music box serves as street art in Cincinnati

Here is some really nifty street art in Cincinnati, Ohio!

From the project web site:

Here is a short video showing our Spinnradl sculptures in action in Cincinnati. The video features two songs on two nearly identical sculptures, sited about a block apart from each other along Pendleton Street. The songs are played by turning a crank, which spins a large cylinder that triggers an analog music box. Turning the crank also powers a pulsing, radial Moire animation on either end of the sculpture’s housing. Each song lasts about thirty seconds when spun at the optimal speed, and repeats as long as the crank is continually turned.

Here is the project web site where you can see more pictures and read more about the development of the Spinnradl.

Thanks Steve & Jere!

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The Emperor's New Clothes by Kazuaki Harada

Here is one of the latest automaton designs by artist Kazuaki Harada. I love the subtle timing of the arms and head!

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Photo tour of the eccentric laboratory of automaton artist Thomas Kuntz

Check out this amazing photo tour of the studio of automaton-maker Thomas Kuntz. In the photos, we see his fantastic sculptures, extensive collection of horological machine tools, and various macabre collections.

From the article summary:

Each Automata is made in editions of 3 or 4 at most. They breathe,drink, smoke and move- all through clockwork that Thomas creates himself. Every piece from start to finish comes from his wonderfully dark and twisty mind.

The complete article can be found the LA Weekly under the title "The Strange Automata Laboratory of Thomas Kuntz @ ARTOMIC Studios".

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