MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends) has continuously redefined haute horology by merging radical design with mechanical ingenuity. Among their most groundbreaking creations, the Horological Machine N°9 (HM9) Sapphire Vision stands out as a true fusion of transparency, aerodynamics, and precision engineering.
Following the original HM9 Flow, which drew inspiration from mid-century automotive and aviation design, MB&F took things even further with the Sapphire Vision (SV) edition - in 2023, MB&F introduced two new limited editions of the HM9-SV - encasing its revolutionary movement in fully transparent sapphire crystal. This move not only enhances the watch’s futuristic aesthetic but also showcases every intricate mechanical detail like never before.
Let’s take an in-depth look at the MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision, its inspiration, technical marvels, and why it has become a highly sought-after collector’s piece.
The original Horological Machine N°9 Flow, introduced in 2018, was heavily influenced by the sweeping aerodynamic forms of classic cars and aircraft. With its dual balance wheels and an unconventional pod-like case, HM9 embodied the futuristic essence of mid-century transportation.
However, despite its avant-garde design, the titanium case of the HM9 Flow partially obscured the mechanical artistry within. MB&F’s response? The HM9 Sapphire Vision—a watch that strips away all barriers between the wearer and the movement.
By replacing the traditional metal case with a fully transparent sapphire crystal shell, MB&F has elevated the HM9 to a new dimension of horological beauty.
The most striking feature of the HM9 Sapphire Vision is, of course, its fully transparent case. Sapphire crystal is one of the hardest materials in the world, second only to diamond, making it incredibly scratch-resistant. However, machining sapphire into the complex, curved, multi-part structure of the HM9 SV is an extraordinary challenge.
MB&F spent two years perfecting the process, ensuring that the sapphire case was both aesthetic and structurally sound. The result? A completely see-through timepiece that allows unobstructed views of the intricate mechanics within.
Despite the crystal-clear exterior, MB&F reinforces the structure with a grade 5 titanium frame, which provides structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight feel. The contrast between the transparent sapphire and the metallic skeleton enhances the futuristic appeal of the watch.
Like the original HM9 Flow, the Sapphire Vision continues the aviation and automotive-inspired design, featuring:
• Streamlined, fluid-like contours reminiscent of vintage jet engines
• Curved “turbine” balance wheel housings inspired by mid-century aircraft
• A forward-facing time display, akin to classic car dashboards
This combination results in a watch that looks like it belongs in a high-speed wind tunnel, ready to take flight.
At the heart of the HM9 Sapphire Vision lies its incredible manual-winding movement, which features twin fully independent balance wheels. These two balances operate separately but are harmonized by a planetary differential, ensuring optimal timekeeping accuracy.
This setup is visually stunning, as the balance wheels oscillate in their respective sapphire “pods,” creating a mesmerizing mechanical ballet.
• Manual-winding movement
• Twin balance wheels beating at 2.5 Hz (18,000 vph)
• Planetary differential for improved accuracy
• 45-hour power reserve
• Completely visible through the sapphire case
The movement is a testament to MB&F’s engineering prowess, proving that horology is as much about art as it is about precision mechanics.
MB&F released the HM9 Sapphire Vision 2021 in four distinct editions, each limited to five pieces only. In 2023, the company introduced two new limited editions of the HM9-SV.
The MB&F Horological Machine N°9 Sapphire Vision is more than just a timepiece—it’s an engineering marvel, a work of art, and a tribute to the golden age of transportation design.
✅ Fully transparent sapphire crystal case showcasing the movement
✅ Twin balance wheels with a planetary differential for ultimate precision
✅ Aviation and automotive-inspired design with futuristic appeal
✅ Limited to just 20 pieces worldwide—extremely exclusive
✅ A true collector’s masterpiece with investment potential
For those lucky enough to acquire one, the HM9 Sapphire Vision is not just a watch—it’s a legacy in motion.
The MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision is an unparalleled creation that blends cutting-edge materials, mid-century design inspiration, and groundbreaking horology. It is a timepiece that pushes boundaries, challenges conventions, and redefines what is possible in watchmaking.
For those who appreciate watches not just as instruments of time but as expressions of art and engineering, the HM9 SV is one of the most extraordinary timepieces ever made.
Would you add this transparent mechanical masterpiece to your collection? Let us know in the comments!
Keywords: MB&F Horological Machine N°9 Sapphire Vision review, Best transparent luxury watches, MB&F HM9 SV price and specifications, MB&F limited edition watches 2025, Most collectible MB&F watches
[photo credits: MB&F / www.mbandf.com]
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Let’s take an in-depth look at the MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision, its inspiration, technical marvels, and why it has become a highly sought-after collector’s piece.
The Evolution of HM9: From Flow to Sapphire Vision
The original Horological Machine N°9 Flow, introduced in 2018, was heavily influenced by the sweeping aerodynamic forms of classic cars and aircraft. With its dual balance wheels and an unconventional pod-like case, HM9 embodied the futuristic essence of mid-century transportation.
However, despite its avant-garde design, the titanium case of the HM9 Flow partially obscured the mechanical artistry within. MB&F’s response? The HM9 Sapphire Vision—a watch that strips away all barriers between the wearer and the movement.
By replacing the traditional metal case with a fully transparent sapphire crystal shell, MB&F has elevated the HM9 to a new dimension of horological beauty.
The Design: A Transparent Marvel of Engineering
A Sapphire Crystal Case Like No Other
The most striking feature of the HM9 Sapphire Vision is, of course, its fully transparent case. Sapphire crystal is one of the hardest materials in the world, second only to diamond, making it incredibly scratch-resistant. However, machining sapphire into the complex, curved, multi-part structure of the HM9 SV is an extraordinary challenge.
MB&F spent two years perfecting the process, ensuring that the sapphire case was both aesthetic and structurally sound. The result? A completely see-through timepiece that allows unobstructed views of the intricate mechanics within.
Titanium Backbone for Strength and Durability
Despite the crystal-clear exterior, MB&F reinforces the structure with a grade 5 titanium frame, which provides structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight feel. The contrast between the transparent sapphire and the metallic skeleton enhances the futuristic appeal of the watch.
Sculpted for an Aerodynamic Look
Like the original HM9 Flow, the Sapphire Vision continues the aviation and automotive-inspired design, featuring:
• Streamlined, fluid-like contours reminiscent of vintage jet engines
• Curved “turbine” balance wheel housings inspired by mid-century aircraft
• A forward-facing time display, akin to classic car dashboards
This combination results in a watch that looks like it belongs in a high-speed wind tunnel, ready to take flight.
The Movement: Mechanical Mastery in Full View
Twin Balance Wheels for Ultimate Precision
At the heart of the HM9 Sapphire Vision lies its incredible manual-winding movement, which features twin fully independent balance wheels. These two balances operate separately but are harmonized by a planetary differential, ensuring optimal timekeeping accuracy.
This setup is visually stunning, as the balance wheels oscillate in their respective sapphire “pods,” creating a mesmerizing mechanical ballet.
Technical Specifications
• Manual-winding movement
• Twin balance wheels beating at 2.5 Hz (18,000 vph)
• Planetary differential for improved accuracy
• 45-hour power reserve
• Completely visible through the sapphire case
The movement is a testament to MB&F’s engineering prowess, proving that horology is as much about art as it is about precision mechanics.
HM9 Sapphire Vision Variants: A Play of Colors
MB&F released the HM9 Sapphire Vision 2021 in four distinct editions, each limited to five pieces only. In 2023, the company introduced two new limited editions of the HM9-SV.
Editions 2021:
- HM9 SV Blue – 18K white gold frame with a deep blue PVD-coated movement
- HM9 SV Red – 18K white gold frame with a rich red PVD-coated movement
- HM9 SV Green – 18K rose gold frame with a green PVD-coated movement
- HM9 SV Purple – 18K rose gold frame with a vibrant purple PVD-coated movement
- HM9 SV Red – 18K white gold frame with a rich red PVD-coated movement
- HM9 SV Green – 18K rose gold frame with a green PVD-coated movement
- HM9 SV Purple – 18K rose gold frame with a vibrant purple PVD-coated movement
Editions 2023:
- two editions with 18K 5N+ red gold frame, combined with a NAC-coated black or PVD-coated blue engine;
- two editions with 18K white gold frame, featuring a PVD-coated purple or red gold-plated engine.
Each version offers a unique color contrast against the transparent sapphire case, making every piece distinct and visually captivating.
While the HM9 SV may look like a futuristic sculpture, it is surprisingly wearable thanks to its ergonomic titanium frame and lightweight sapphire case. However, this watch is not for the faint-hearted—it’s a true statement piece, designed for those who appreciate extreme haute horology.
✅ A bold, head-turning presence on the wrist
✅ Lightweight due to titanium and sapphire construction
✅ Highly comfortable strap for a secure fit
✅ Unparalleled visibility of the movement from every angle
Despite its bold aesthetics, the HM9 SV remains a highly functional and surprisingly comfortable timepiece.
With each edition limited to five pieces only, the MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision is one of the rarest MB&F creations to date. Given the brand’s track record for appreciation in value, there is no doubt that this watch will become a future grail for collectors.
✅ Ultra-limited production—only 20 pieces worldwide
✅ One of the most challenging sapphire cases ever made
✅ A unique fusion of high-tech materials and vintage inspiration
✅ An investment-grade timepiece likely to appreciate over time
For collectors who appreciate horology as an art form, the HM9 Sapphire Vision is one of the most captivating watches ever created.
The price for each of these 2023 editions is approximately CHF 420,000 or $490,000, excluding taxes.
- two editions with 18K white gold frame, featuring a PVD-coated purple or red gold-plated engine.
Each version offers a unique color contrast against the transparent sapphire case, making every piece distinct and visually captivating.
Wearing the HM9 Sapphire Vision: A Statement of Exclusivity
While the HM9 SV may look like a futuristic sculpture, it is surprisingly wearable thanks to its ergonomic titanium frame and lightweight sapphire case. However, this watch is not for the faint-hearted—it’s a true statement piece, designed for those who appreciate extreme haute horology.
Key highlights of the wearing experience:
✅ A bold, head-turning presence on the wrist
✅ Lightweight due to titanium and sapphire construction
✅ Highly comfortable strap for a secure fit
✅ Unparalleled visibility of the movement from every angle
Despite its bold aesthetics, the HM9 SV remains a highly functional and surprisingly comfortable timepiece.
Collectibility: A Future Grail Watch?
With each edition limited to five pieces only, the MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision is one of the rarest MB&F creations to date. Given the brand’s track record for appreciation in value, there is no doubt that this watch will become a future grail for collectors.
Reasons why it is a must-have:
✅ Ultra-limited production—only 20 pieces worldwide
✅ One of the most challenging sapphire cases ever made
✅ A unique fusion of high-tech materials and vintage inspiration
✅ An investment-grade timepiece likely to appreciate over time
For collectors who appreciate horology as an art form, the HM9 Sapphire Vision is one of the most captivating watches ever created.
Price
The price for each of these 2023 editions is approximately CHF 420,000 or $490,000, excluding taxes.
Final Verdict: Why the MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision is a Game-Changer
The MB&F Horological Machine N°9 Sapphire Vision is more than just a timepiece—it’s an engineering marvel, a work of art, and a tribute to the golden age of transportation design.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Fully transparent sapphire crystal case showcasing the movement
✅ Twin balance wheels with a planetary differential for ultimate precision
✅ Aviation and automotive-inspired design with futuristic appeal
✅ Limited to just 20 pieces worldwide—extremely exclusive
✅ A true collector’s masterpiece with investment potential
For those lucky enough to acquire one, the HM9 Sapphire Vision is not just a watch—it’s a legacy in motion.
Conclusion
The MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision is an unparalleled creation that blends cutting-edge materials, mid-century design inspiration, and groundbreaking horology. It is a timepiece that pushes boundaries, challenges conventions, and redefines what is possible in watchmaking.
For those who appreciate watches not just as instruments of time but as expressions of art and engineering, the HM9 SV is one of the most extraordinary timepieces ever made.
Would you add this transparent mechanical masterpiece to your collection? Let us know in the comments!
Keywords: MB&F Horological Machine N°9 Sapphire Vision review, Best transparent luxury watches, MB&F HM9 SV price and specifications, MB&F limited edition watches 2025, Most collectible MB&F watches
(By targeting these keywords, we hope this article will be more discoverable for watch enthusiasts, collectors, and investors worldwide.)
[photo credits: MB&F / www.mbandf.com]
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