• MB&F Watches A Journey Through Time, Art, and Innovation
  • An In Depth Look into the Astonishing World of MB&F Watches

    From Vision to Reality The Evolution of Max Büsser and Friends

    Hourstriker Staff
    Words by: Hourstriker Staff
    June 28, 2023
  • Let's embark on a journey to the extraordinary world of MB&F watches. If you're not familiar with this brand, the acronym stands for Maximilian Büsser & Friends. It's a testament to the collaboration between extraordinarily talented artisans, brought together by one man's vision of defying norms and breaking the mold in watchmaking. This is no ordinary brand and certainly not your everyday watch. No, MB&F is in a league of its own, where horology meets artistry, where the imagination runs wild, and where the line between timekeeping and sculptural innovation is beautifully blurred.

    MB&F was conceived by the illustrious Maximilian Büsser, a man whose name is often uttered in reverence in the watchmaking world. Maximilian's passion for horology started when he was young, observing his father's collection of timepieces. However, it wasn't the looks of these watches that fascinated him, but the intricate mechanics hidden beneath their cases. He was captivated by the symphony of gears and springs, leading him to study engineering. His interest in micro engineering was a stepping stone into the world of watchmaking, eventually paving the path for MB&F.

    Courtesy of MB&F
    Courtesy of MB&F


    Büsser's career started at Jaeger LeCoultre, one of the world's most prestigious watchmakers, where he spearheaded the brand's complications department. His innate understanding of complex mechanisms and his vision for innovation were instrumental in creating some of the brand's most iconic pieces. But for Büsser, the real turning point came when he joined Harry Winston in 1998 as the Managing Director of the brand's Rare Timepieces division. Under his leadership, the Opus series was born, where each year, a single watchmaker would be given carte blanche to design a timepiece that pushed the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.

    The culmination of Büsser's experience, passion, and vision led to the founding of MB&F in 2005. He intended to form a creative playground where he could push the limits of traditional watchmaking. The idea was to create artistic, unconventional timepieces without being constrained by market demands or industry standards. The 'F' in MB&F represents the "Friends," which consists of a network of highly skilled artisans and independent watchmakers who contribute to bringing Büsser's fantastical visions to life.

    The road to establishing MB&F was not without challenges. Still, Büsser's unshakeable belief in his vision steered the company through the hurdles. With a firm dedication to quality and artistry, MB&F did not just survive but flourished, becoming a beacon for those who appreciate the extraordinary and seek the unique.

    Courtesy of MB&F
    Courtesy of MB&F


    In 2007, MB&F debuted the HM1 (Horological Machine No.1), marking a milestone in the brand's history. This piece was unlike anything else on the market, featuring a revolutionary three dimensional case and movement. A testament to Büsser's ethos of "a creative adult is a child who survived," the HM1 was a piece of wearable art, a magnificent symphony of technical ingenuity, and a bold statement that encapsulated the essence of MB&F.

    The ethos of the brand is etched in each timepiece they create, leading to the creation of pieces that make a statement, redefine conventions, and surprise even the most seasoned watch connoisseurs. From the Horological Machines to the Legacy Machines and Performance Art series, every watch is a distinct creation, embodying a unique narrative, a testament to the harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and avant garde design.

    MB&F is not just a brand, but an extraordinary platform where horological dreams come to life, where friendships are forged, and where the enduring legacy of watchmaking is honored and celebrated in a distinctively innovative way. As we delve deeper into the MB&F universe, prepare to be wowed and amazed, for we are about to witness horological marvels that truly push the envelope of imagination and craftsmanship.

    Courtesy of MB&F
    Courtesy of MB&F


    Fasten your seatbelts, folks, as we take off to explore some of the magnificent watch lines that define the MB&F brand. We'll commence our journey with the Horological Machines, dive into the Legacy Machines, set our sights on the Performance Art series, and cap off with the rare and wondrous Co creations.

    The Horological Machines (HMs) are the bedrock upon which the brand was built. They serve as the perfect embodiment of Büsser's childhood dreams and the rebellious spirit that sparked the creation of MB&F. Each HM watch is like a piece of kinetic art that tells a story of the past, present, and future, wrapped in an enchanting package of technical mastery and design innovation. A great example is the HM9 Flow, a masterpiece that was inspired by aerodynamic principles of the 1940s and 50s. With its asymmetrical design, multi layered case, and manual winding movement displayed in its full glory, the HM9 is an intricate sculpture that perfectly marries high octane horology with nostalgic aesthetics.

    Horological Machine
    Horological Machine Courtesy of MB&F


    Next in line are the Legacy Machines (LMs), which are Büsser's tribute to the 18th and 19th century watchmaking. Each watch in the LM series is a beautiful juxtaposition of traditional horological craftsmanship with a futuristic aesthetic twist. Take the LM1, for instance. It's a dual time zone watch featuring floating balance wheels and an arcing power reserve indicator. The watch appears as if it has captured a tiny piece of an alternate universe under its domed sapphire crystal. From the painstakingly finished movement to the remarkable 3 dimensional architecture, every element of the LM series is an ode to the grandeur of classical horology seen through the inventive lens of MB&F.

    Legacy Machine
    Legacy Machine Courtesy of MB&F


    Now, let's move on to the Performance Art series, a sublime celebration of collaborative creativity. These watches are the outcome of MB&F joining forces with renowned artists, designers, and watchmakers to create timepieces that are utterly unique and unbelievably cool. A splendid example of this series is the MoonMachine 2, where MB&F collaborated with Stepan Sarpaneva, a Finnish watchmaker known for his celestial inspired creations. This timepiece features Sarpaneva's signature moon phase indication, surrounded by the fantastical world of MB&F. The result is a watch that's literally out of this world!

    Performance Art
    Performance Art Courtesy of MB&F


    Last, but by no means least, are the Co creations. These pieces are less of watches and more of horological creatures brought to life. They are essentially kinetic sculptures that also tell time, created in partnership with masters of other crafts. Like the Medusa, a table clock developed in collaboration with L’Epée 1839, a premier clockmaker in Switzerland. Resembling a floating jellyfish, the Medusa glows in the dark with Super LumiNova, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that is both functional and wildly imaginative.

    Co-creations
    Co-creations Courtesy of MB&F


    Each watch line from MB&F has its own unique charm, serving as a testament to the innovative spirit and sheer audacity of the brand. They refuse to conform to conventional notions of watchmaking and instead pave their own path, crafting wearable pieces of art that are as much a testament to human imagination as they are to technical prowess. Indeed, with every creation, MB&F reinforces their standing as trailblazers in the world of haute horology.

    As we reach the climax of our horological exploration, we are left in awe of the incredible journey that MB&F has undertaken in the world of timekeeping. Our voyage through their remarkable watch lines, the dreams they encapsulate, and the artistic and technological marvels they are, has been nothing short of a delightful revelation. But the joy of MB&F is that their story isn't concluded. It’s an ongoing tale of unceasing creativity and unabashed daring. So let's venture forward and see what makes this brand a true treasure to behold and a dream to experience.

    Courtesy of MB&F
    Courtesy of MB&F


    Beyond the allure of their intricate mechanics and pioneering aesthetics, what truly sets MB&F apart is their profound respect for collaboration. With each passing year, their 'friends' network expands, bringing forth fresh ideas and perspectives into their magnificent creations. They have formed alliances with the most revered artisans, designers, and horologists in the industry, building a rich tapestry of partnerships that continue to enrich and inspire their timepieces. This commitment to collective creativity sets them apart in an industry often characterized by guarded secrets and solitary inventiveness.

    Furthermore, MB&F is a master storyteller. Each timepiece they create isn't merely a functional accessory, but a narrative, a slice of a dream made tangible. When you wear an MB&F watch, you aren't simply donning a timekeeping device; you are embracing a piece of a story, a fragment of a dream, a chapter of an exciting journey. It's this emotional connection that makes each MB&F watch much more than the sum of its parts.

    Courtesy of MB&F
    Courtesy of MB&F


    It's also important to appreciate the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. In an era of mass production, MB&F stands out for its dedication to handcrafting each timepiece with utmost precision and care. Whether it's the complex construction of their Horological Machines, the elegant balance of tradition and innovation in their Legacy Machines, the collaborative magic in their Performance Art series, or the enchanting whimsy of their Co creations, each watch is a testament to their relentless pursuit of excellence.

    When it comes to after sales service, MB&F's dedication to their customers is commendable. They not only ensure that every watch leaving their atelier is in perfect condition but also offer robust support to the proud owners of their creations. This attention to customer satisfaction mirrors the brand's core philosophy of building relationships rather than mere transactions.

    What MB&F has achieved in such a short span of time is impressive, to say the least. Yet, it's clear that they aren't resting on their laurels. They are continually pushing the envelope, challenging conventions, and dreaming bigger. So what does the future hold for MB&F? If their past is any indication, we can expect nothing less than an exciting medley of captivating designs, ingenious mechanics, and awe inspiring creativity.

    Courtesy of MB&F
    Courtesy of MB&F


    In conclusion, MB&F isn't just about manufacturing timepieces. It's about forging dreams, challenging the norm, and opening the door to infinite horological possibilities. Whether you're a seasoned watch connoisseur or a casual admirer, MB&F promises a thrilling journey into the universe of extraordinary timekeeping. So, hold onto your seats, folks, because the MB&F adventure is just getting started!

    The brand is indeed a shining beacon of ingenuity and creativity in the world of horology, as Max Büsser and his friends have taught us that time isn't merely something to be measured. Instead, it's something to be celebrated, marveled at, and, above all, enjoyed. In the end, isn't that what a watch, or indeed, life itself, should be all about?
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