L'Epee 1839 X MB&F Albatross Clock

Prepare to be captivated by a timepiece that transcends the ordinary, a mechanical marvel that embodies the spirit of adventure and the allure of Jules Verne's fantastical world. The L'Epée 1839 X MB&F Albatross clock isn't just a timekeeper; it's a meticulously crafted kinetic sculpture, a symphony of gears and artistry that pays homage to the golden age of invention and exploration.



Before we delve into the intricate details of the Albatross, let's take a moment to appreciate the creative forces behind this masterpiece. L’Epée 1839, a venerable Swiss clockmaker with a history spanning nearly two centuries, has consistently pushed the boundaries of horological artistry. From crafting intricate music boxes to designing the world's largest pendulum clock, L’Epée 1839 has solidified its reputation as a pioneer in the world of high-end timekeeping.



On the other hand, MB&F, a relative newcomer to the scene, has quickly established itself as a disruptive force in the watchmaking world. Founded by Maximilian Büsser, MB&F is renowned for its avant-garde approach to watch design, often drawing inspiration from science fiction, aviation, and other realms of imagination. Their creations are not merely timepieces but wearable works of art, captivating collectors with their intricate mechanics and bold aesthetics.



The L’Epée 1839 X MB&F Albatross is the culmination of a decade-long collaboration between these two powerhouses of horological creativity. This extraordinary clock is a testament to the shared passion for pushing the boundaries of mechanical ingenuity and artistic expression. With a staggering 1,520 components, the Albatross is a symphony of gears, springs, and meticulously crafted parts, all working in harmony to create an unforgettable spectacle.



Inspired by the fantastical airships of Jules Verne, the Albatross captures the essence of steampunk aesthetics. Its sleek, aerodynamic form, adorned with intricate details and shimmering metallic finishes, evokes a sense of wonder and nostalgia. At the heart of this mechanical marvel lies not one but two separate movements, each driving a distinct function. One movement powers the timekeeping and striking mechanism, while the other controls the mesmerizing automaton that brings the Albatross to life.



Every hour, the Albatross embarks on a captivating performance. As the clock strikes the hour, a series of 32 propellers spring into action, rotating in perfect synchronicity, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of motion and sound. This "propeller hour" complication is a world first, a testament to the ingenuity of the L’Epée 1839 and MB&F teams.



The Albatross is not just a visual feast; it's an auditory delight as well. The striking mechanism chimes both the specific hours on the hour and a single strike on the half-hour, adding another layer of complexity and charm to this already remarkable creation. The clock's impressive power reserve ensures that the Albatross continues its enchanting performance for days on end. The timekeeping and striking mechanism can run for up to eight days, while the automaton boasts a power reserve of one full day.



The Albatross is not just a clock; it's an interactive experience. The designers, remembering their own childhood fascination with mechanical toys, have incorporated playful elements into the clock's design. A miniature cockpit, complete with a dashboard and ship's wheel, is visible through a porthole at the top of the airship. This whimsical detail adds a touch of childlike wonder to the Albatross, inviting viewers to explore its hidden depths.



Furthermore, the clock's functions can be controlled at will. The chiming and propeller mechanisms can be activated or deactivated independently, allowing the owner to customize the Albatross's performance. Two "on-demand" buttons offer even greater control, enabling the user to trigger the chime or activate the propellers whenever they desire.



The Albatross's impressive functionality is a testament to its dual movement architecture. L’Epée 1839, renowned for their mastery of clock movements, designed and manufactured both movements in-house. The first movement, a marvel of precision, governs the timekeeping and striking functions. It boasts an impressive 8-day power reserve, ensuring that the Albatross continues to mark the passage of time even when unattended. The second movement, equally remarkable, powers the mesmerizing propeller automaton. This intricate mechanism, composed of countless gears and springs, orchestrates the synchronized ballet of the 32 propellers, bringing the Albatross to life with every passing hour.



The propellers themselves are a masterpiece of engineering and design. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, they work in pairs, creating the illusion of greater speed and dynamism. The propellers rotate at a carefully calibrated speed, ensuring they remain visible without generating any disruptive wind. This delicate balance between visual impact and mechanical precision is a testament to the tireless experimentation and refinement that went into the Albatross's development.



The Albatross is not just a marvel of mechanics; it's a testament to the artistry of materials. The clock's frame is a harmonious blend of brass, steel, and aluminum, each material chosen for its unique properties and aesthetic appeal. The colored parts are achieved through a painstaking process involving translucent cold lacquer, akin to enamel. This technique, perfected by L’Epée 1839 over years of experimentation, allows the underlying finishing techniques to shine through, creating a sense of depth and richness that surpasses traditional anodizing treatments. The Albatross is available in five captivating colors: blue, red, green, champagne, and black, each limited to a mere eight pieces, making each clock a truly exclusive collector's item.



The Albatross is a commanding presence, measuring a substantial 60cm in length, 35cm in width, and 60cm in height. Its weight, a hefty 17kg, underscores the density of its mechanical complexity. This is not a clock that hides in a corner; it demands attention and admiration, serving as a centerpiece in any room fortunate enough to house it.



Such a masterpiece of horological artistry and engineering does not come cheap. The Albatross retails for CHF 119,000 + VAT. This price tag reflects not only the exceptional craftsmanship and technical innovation that went into its creation but also its rarity and exclusivity. With only 40 pieces produced worldwide, the Albatross is destined to become a coveted treasure among discerning collectors and enthusiasts of mechanical art.



The Albatross is a timepiece that rewards closer inspection. Beyond its striking aesthetics and captivating automaton, it boasts a range of subtle details that reveal the thoughtfulness and playfulness of its creators. The miniature cockpit, accessible through a porthole at the top of the airship, is a delightful surprise that sparks the imagination. The clock's winding mechanism, cleverly integrated into the propellers, adds another layer of interactivity and engagement. Even the fail-safes built into the propellers, designed to prevent damage from curious hands, speak to the creators' understanding of human nature and their desire to ensure the Albatross's longevity.