
There’s not much reality in reality TV these days. But there are still shows out there that are more interested in their source material than they are in hype. The German program, Handwerkskunst!, is a prime example.
Handwerkskunst! (which translates to ‘craftsmanship’) is dedicated to craftspeople of varying vocations and backgrounds. Each episode focuses on an object, whether it be a cabinet or a carnival float, and the process of building it from beginning to end. There’s no fancy title sequence or even background music—just selective narration, and the rustling of the tools and machines used in the process.

If you tune in to the show a month from now, you’ll get to see how Martin Becker at MB Cycles built this shimmering Harley-Davidson panhead.…