30 Facts About MB&F

The Origins of MB&F

MB&F, short for Maximilian Büsser & Friends, is a Swiss watchmaking brand known for its innovative and artistic timepieces. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this unique brand.

1. MB&F was founded in 2005 by Maximilian Büsser, who previously worked at Jaeger-LeCoultre and Harry Winston.

2. The brand's name reflects Büsser's collaborative approach, working with various artists, designers, and watchmakers.

3. MB&F's first watch, the Horological Machine No.1 (HM1), was launched in 2007.

4. The company is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, a hub for luxury watchmaking.

5. MB&F has a small team of around 20 people, emphasizing quality over quantity.

Unique Design Philosophy

MB&F stands out for its unconventional and futuristic designs. Here are some intriguing aspects of their design philosophy.

6. Each MB&F watch is designed to be a "kinetic sculpture," blending art and engineering.

7. The brand often draws inspiration from science fiction, steampunk, and retro-futurism.

8. MB&F collaborates with independent watchmakers and artists to create unique timepieces.

9. The Horological Machines (HM) series features avant-garde designs, while the Legacy Machines (LM) series pays homage to traditional watchmaking.

10. MB&F's watches often feature three-dimensional dials and complex movements.

Notable Timepieces

MB&F has produced several iconic watches that have captivated collectors and enthusiasts. Let's explore some of their most notable creations.

11. The HM4 Thunderbolt, inspired by aviation, features two separate dials for hours and minutes.

12. The LM1, launched in 2011, showcases a suspended balance wheel and dual time zones.

13. The HM6 Space Pirate, with its biomorphic design, resembles a spaceship from a sci-fi movie.

14. The LM Perpetual, introduced in 2015, reimagines the perpetual calendar with a revolutionary movement.

15. The HM7 Aquapod, inspired by jellyfish, features a central flying tourbillon and a rotating bezel.

Collaborations and Partnerships

MB&F thrives on collaboration, working with various artists and brands to create unique timepieces. Here are some noteworthy partnerships.

16. MB&F collaborated with clockmaker L'Epée 1839 to create the Starfleet Machine, a spaceship-inspired table clock.

17. The brand partnered with Reuge, a Swiss music box manufacturer, to create the MusicMachine series.

18. MB&F worked with artist Xia Hang to design the HM6 Alien Nation, featuring miniature alien sculptures.

19. The brand joined forces with H. Moser & Cie to create the LM101 MB&F x H. Moser, blending both brands' design elements.

20. MB&F collaborated with Swiss designer Alain Silberstein for the LM1 Silberstein, featuring bold colors and geometric shapes.

Awards and Recognition

MB&F's innovative approach has earned them numerous awards and accolades. Let's take a look at some of their achievements.

21. The HM4 Thunderbolt won the Best Concept & Design Watch at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) in 2010.

22. The LM1 received the Public Prize at the GPHG in 2012.

23. The LM Perpetual won the Calendar Watch Prize at the GPHG in 2016.

24. MB&F's HM7 Aquapod was awarded the Best Sports Watch at the GPHG in 2017.

25. The brand has been featured in prestigious publications like The New York Times, Forbes, and The Wall Street Journal.

MB&F's Impact on Watchmaking

MB&F has significantly influenced the watchmaking industry with its innovative designs and collaborative approach. Here are some ways the brand has made an impact.

26. MB&F has pushed the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, inspiring other brands to experiment with unconventional designs.

27. The brand's collaborative approach has fostered a sense of community among independent watchmakers and artists.

28. MB&F's timepieces have become highly sought-after by collectors, often fetching high prices at auctions.

29. The brand's focus on limited production runs ensures exclusivity and maintains high standards of craftsmanship.

30. MB&F has contributed to the resurgence of interest in mechanical watches, highlighting the artistry and engineering behind each timepiece.

The Final Word on MB&F

MB&F stands out in the world of horology. Their unique designs and innovative approach have redefined what a watch can be. From their Horological Machines to the Legacy Machines, each piece tells a story of creativity and craftsmanship. The brand's collaborations with artists and watchmakers push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.

Their commitment to quality and detail ensures every watch is a masterpiece. Whether you're a watch enthusiast or just curious, MB&F offers something truly special. Their creations are not just timepieces but works of art that challenge the norm.

Exploring MB&F's world reveals a blend of art, engineering, and passion. It's clear why they've garnered such a dedicated following. So next time you see an MB&F watch, remember, it's more than just a watch—it's a statement.