Unrestored classics of significance have become rare. Enthusiasts who want to conjure something special out of obscurity have to search long and hard. Here, however, a rare rarity has emerged from obscurity all by itself. "Argo" was launched in 1931 at the Stow & Son shipyard, sailed many nautical miles on blue water and was based in the North Sea after spending several years in South West Africa.
"Argo" is the 15th design by the famous British star designer John Laurent Giles. His life's work comprises around 1000 cracks, and he has already given "Argo" everything that will later make up his signature: Elegance, seaworthiness, an easy-to-use sail plan and many extravagant details that make the cuddly yawl a real eye-catcher. Whether it's the canoe stern with the curved stern ridge or the deep cockpit behind the doghouse, whether it's the beautifully curved coamings or the elegantly aisled skylight, this Yawl has what it takes to be the everybodys darling of the classic scene.
If it ever turns up there again. Because at the moment it is much more likely that it will have to be scrapped. The clock is ticking. The hall in which the ship stands must be cleared, but the hull is currently not transportable. After an eventful history, the owner - 20 years after bringing "Argo" from Africa and restoring it in Germany - has decided to carry out a further, fundamental refurbishment. And this is not yet complete.
The outer shell is currently lined, but still unploughed in many places. The interior has been extended, but most of it has already been excellently restored. The existing equipment is also plentiful and of high quality. Of particular interest are the yacht's handy dimensions for cruising boats of this generation. With a hull length of eleven metres and a width of three metres, even smaller harbours are easy to call at.
Lasse Johannsen
Deputy Editor in Chief YACHT
