In the words of the renowned Swiss architect Le Corbusier, “une maison est une machine à habiter” (a house is a machine to live in). This philosophy takes on a new dimension with the latest creation from MB&F, the HM11 Architect (Horological Machine Nº11 Architect). Blurring the lines between architecture and horology, this timepiece invites wearers to not just wear a watch but to live with it, embodying the concept of a watch as a habitable machine.
The genesis of HM11 Architect can be traced back to the experimental phase of architecture in the mid- to late-1960s. Architects, some self-proclaimed habitologists, created houses that seemed to breathe, undulate, and connect with the human form. Maximilian Büsser, the founder of MB&F, envisioned what would happen if one of these houses became a watch, leading to the birth of HM11.
At the heart of the HM11 Architect is a central flying tourbillon, resembling the origin point of a watch and the clerestory windows of iconic temples. The watch features four symmetrical volumes that rotate on their foundations, creating parabolic rooms. Each room serves a different purpose, from displaying time to indicating power reserve and even housing a mechanical thermometer. The watch’s design pays homage to the organic, playful forms of the inspirational “bubble houses.”
Crafted with precision and innovation, the HM11 Architect comes in two launch editions, using titanium and sapphire crystal. The case, a highly three-dimensional Grade-5 titanium shell, is complemented by shaped sapphire crystal components, showcasing MB&F’s expertise in watchmaking. The use of see-through crown technology, though challenging, adds aesthetic impact and technical innovation to the timepiece.
A unique feature of the HM11 Architect is the see-through crown, close to 10mm in diameter, allowing an unimpeded view directly into the movement. Overcoming technical challenges, the watch incorporates two sets of gaskets, akin to a double airlock security system, ensuring water resistance and protection from dust particles.
Despite its architectural complexity, the HM11 Architect surprises with a sleek 42mm diameter case that sits comfortably on the wrist. The winding mechanism introduces a novel approach, allowing wearers to wind the watch by turning the entire case. This not only simplifies the winding process but also adds a unique interactive element to the watch-wearing experience.
The flying tourbillon, a signature element in MB&F watches, is protected by a full-system dampener with high-tension suspension springs inspired by aerospace technology. This innovative approach enhances shock resistance, ensuring the watch’s durability and performance.
The HM11 Architect is available in titanium with blue dial plate (limited to 25 pieces) and in titanium with red gold dial plate (limited to 25 pieces).
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