When people think of iconic wristwatches they usually have a specific image that springs to mind. That image - mostly irrespective of the world-class manufacturer, has certain components. These include a face, a bevel, hands, and various other features such as a date display or other timekeeping features that are found on chronograph editions of famous releases.
However, there are watchmakers who break the mold and reimagine just what a timepiece should be. One of these is MB&F. MB&F was founded in 2005 by Maximilian Büsser in Geneva, Switzerland. This collective pushes the boundaries of luxury watchmaking. Their creations are complex and unconventional and represent a retro design ethos influenced by science fiction and the aquatic lifestyle.
Its first foray into watchmaking resulted in the 'Horological Machines' Successive models were renowned for the influences from spaceflight to fantasy novels and one could say that the MB&F Titanium Limited Edition (100 pieces) Horological Machine N°6 is one of the most original of the series.
Production of this model started in 2014 and the final edition has since been released. It is not only the limited nature of the series but also its striking design and engineering excellence that has made this timepiece a popular collector's item.
The case is a titanium sphere (adding to its durability and appeal) and features four sapphire crystal domes, one in each corner. Forward of the display, there are two domes, one displaying minutes and the other hours. In the aft of the case are two 'turbines' that spin to optimize the performance of the self-winding mechanism of the watch in order to ensure that it performs at high specification levels - and serve to reduce wear and tear.
The top of the case consists of a flying tourbillon and offers a partial view of the inner workings of the watch. The back of the watch is sapphire crystal and shows the complex inner 475 mechanisms of the watch, which was the result of three years of intensive research. Also available are the HM6-SV and the 'Alien Nation' editions which allow for a more comprehensive look at the movement.
The Titanium Limited edition MB&F Horological Machine N°6 is a creation that pushes the boundaries and functionality, creativity, and style. It is an exquisite watch that is designed for those who think outside the box.