The Watchmaker’s Apprentice DVD Review

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The Watchmaker’s Apprentice

Director: David Armstrong

Stars: George Daniels, Roger Smith

The Watchmaker’s Apprentice is a documentary about master watchmaker George Daniels, who lived on the Isle of Man and carried on the centuries-old craft of handmade watchmaking. He led a life where he was totally obsessed with watches and it also tells the story of Roger Smith, a man who was determined to become Daniels’ apprentice, hence the name of the documentary. John Rhys-Davies (Indiana Jones, Lord of the Rings) does the voiceover and it is a beautiful-looking documentary, telling an intriguing story. You do get a little bit of an insight into this ancient craft although sometimes the voiceover can be a little bit maudlin and rather portentous. The Watchmaker’s Apprentice looks at legacy and leaving something behind after you are gone and how Smith, once Daniels’ apprentice, is now the equal of his master in terms of skill. It is a charming and likeable documentary, well-made and beautifully shot.

The Watchmaker’s Apprentice [DVD]