The MB&F Horological Machine No. 11 (HM11) “Architect” is a testament to avant-garde watchmaking, blending innovative horology with architectural inspiration. Drawing inspiration from the futuristic and experimental architecture of the 1960s and 1970s, this timepiece embodies MB&F’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of design and functionality.
The HM11 “Architect” draws heavily from the futuristic architectural designs of the mid-20th century, particularly the works of architects like Antti Lovag and Le Corbusier. These visionaries challenged conventional design norms, creating structures that were both innovative and organic. The HM11 mirrors this ethos, presenting a watch that resembles a miniature architectural marvel for the wrist. Its design features a central atrium surrounded by four parabolic rooms, reminiscent of Lovag’s bubble architecture and Futuro house created by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen.
The HM11’s case is a masterpiece of engineering and design. Measuring 42mm in diameter and 23mm in thickness, it boasts a rotating mechanism that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. Each 45-degree clockwise rotation of the case, accompanied by a tactile click, winds the movement, delivering 72 minutes of power to the barrel. Ten complete rotations provide the watch’s maximum power reserve of 96 hours.
At the core of the HM11 lies a central flying tourbillon, showcased beneath a double-domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides. This feature not only enhances the watch’s visual appeal but also underscores MB&F’s commitment to high-precision timekeeping. The tourbillon’s quatrefoil-shaped upper bridge draws inspiration from clerestory windows found in significant architectural structures, further cementing the watch’s architectural theme.
The HM11’s dial is ingeniously divided into four distinct sections, each serving a specific function:
1. Time Display: This section indicates hours and minutes using rod-mounted globes as indexes. Polished aluminum globes denote the quarter hours, while smaller titanium globes mark the remaining hours. Red-tipped arrows provide clear time indication.
2. Power Reserve Indicator: Adjacent to the time display, this section uses a series of globes increasing in size to represent the remaining power reserve, with the largest globe indicating full power.
3. Thermometer: A mechanical temperature indicator, based on a bimetallic band, provides the current temperature in either Celsius or Fahrenheit (-20 to 60 C, or 0 to 140 F), adding a functional yet unconventional complication to the watch.
4. Time-Setting Crown: This section houses an oversized, see-through sapphire crystal crown, a world-first in watchmaking, allowing users to admire the intricate mechanics within while setting the time.
Each ‘room’ is accessed by rotating the case, aligning the desired function directly with the viewer’s line of sight, enhancing both usability and engagement.
The HM11 is powered by a manually wound movement developed in-house by MB&F, comprising 364 components and 29 jewels. Operating at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5Hz), it offers a substantial power reserve of 96 hours. The movement’s plates and bridges are treated with Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), available in either ozone blue or 5N red gold, depending on the edition.
The HM11 “Architect” is available in two limited editions of 25 pieces each. One edition features a blue dial plate, while the other showcases a 5N red gold dial plate, both encased in grade 5 titanium. This exclusivity ensures that each piece remains a coveted collector’s item.
The MB&F Horological Machine No. 11 “Architect” transcends traditional watchmaking by integrating elements of architectural design, innovative mechanics, and artistic expression. It stands as a testament to MB&F’s vision of creating horological masterpieces that challenge conventions and inspire imagination.
[photo credits: MB&F / www.mbandf.com]
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Design Inspiration: A Nod to Futuristic Architecture
The HM11 “Architect” draws heavily from the futuristic architectural designs of the mid-20th century, particularly the works of architects like Antti Lovag and Le Corbusier. These visionaries challenged conventional design norms, creating structures that were both innovative and organic. The HM11 mirrors this ethos, presenting a watch that resembles a miniature architectural marvel for the wrist. Its design features a central atrium surrounded by four parabolic rooms, reminiscent of Lovag’s bubble architecture and Futuro house created by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen.
Innovative Case Construction and Functionality
The HM11’s case is a masterpiece of engineering and design. Measuring 42mm in diameter and 23mm in thickness, it boasts a rotating mechanism that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. Each 45-degree clockwise rotation of the case, accompanied by a tactile click, winds the movement, delivering 72 minutes of power to the barrel. Ten complete rotations provide the watch’s maximum power reserve of 96 hours.
Central Flying Tourbillon: The Beating Heart
At the core of the HM11 lies a central flying tourbillon, showcased beneath a double-domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides. This feature not only enhances the watch’s visual appeal but also underscores MB&F’s commitment to high-precision timekeeping. The tourbillon’s quatrefoil-shaped upper bridge draws inspiration from clerestory windows found in significant architectural structures, further cementing the watch’s architectural theme.
The Four ‘Rooms’: A Unique Display of Functions
The HM11’s dial is ingeniously divided into four distinct sections, each serving a specific function:
1. Time Display: This section indicates hours and minutes using rod-mounted globes as indexes. Polished aluminum globes denote the quarter hours, while smaller titanium globes mark the remaining hours. Red-tipped arrows provide clear time indication.
2. Power Reserve Indicator: Adjacent to the time display, this section uses a series of globes increasing in size to represent the remaining power reserve, with the largest globe indicating full power.
3. Thermometer: A mechanical temperature indicator, based on a bimetallic band, provides the current temperature in either Celsius or Fahrenheit (-20 to 60 C, or 0 to 140 F), adding a functional yet unconventional complication to the watch.
4. Time-Setting Crown: This section houses an oversized, see-through sapphire crystal crown, a world-first in watchmaking, allowing users to admire the intricate mechanics within while setting the time.
Each ‘room’ is accessed by rotating the case, aligning the desired function directly with the viewer’s line of sight, enhancing both usability and engagement.
Movement and Technical Specifications
The HM11 is powered by a manually wound movement developed in-house by MB&F, comprising 364 components and 29 jewels. Operating at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5Hz), it offers a substantial power reserve of 96 hours. The movement’s plates and bridges are treated with Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), available in either ozone blue or 5N red gold, depending on the edition.
Limited Editions and Availability
The HM11 “Architect” is available in two limited editions of 25 pieces each. One edition features a blue dial plate, while the other showcases a 5N red gold dial plate, both encased in grade 5 titanium. This exclusivity ensures that each piece remains a coveted collector’s item.
Conclusion: A Fusion of Art, Architecture, and Horology
The MB&F Horological Machine No. 11 “Architect” transcends traditional watchmaking by integrating elements of architectural design, innovative mechanics, and artistic expression. It stands as a testament to MB&F’s vision of creating horological masterpieces that challenge conventions and inspire imagination.
[photo credits: MB&F / www.mbandf.com]
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