MB&F is marking a notable milestone: its 20th anniversary.
To celebrate this landmark occasion, the brand has unveiled two exceptional timepieces— the Legacy Machine Perpetual and the Sequential Flyback, both featuring their distinctive ‘Longhorn’ lugs.
Design Evolution
Looking back to 2009, the Legacy Machine concept came to life as designers wrestled with an ambitious goal.
The initial idea for the LM1 involved long, sculptural lugs, affectionately termed “horns.” However, the design’s future hung in suspense due to uncertainty about the best method to position the strap until a breakthrough came in 2021.
To honor the LM1’s 10th anniversary, a prototype made its debut, showcasing a stunning stainless steel case paired with black dials and adaptable lug holes that allowed for versatile strap attachments.
This prototype made waves at auction, selling for a remarkable CHF 277,200, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Save the Rhino International.
Now, in tribute to its two decades in the watchmaking world, MB&F is reintroducing this design philosophy in two standout models that have evolved over the past decade: the LM Perpetual, designed by Stephen McDonnell and initially launched in 2015, and the upcoming LM Sequential Flyback, set to debut in 2024, also under McDonnell’s expertise.
Both pieces boast a stunning three-dimensional sculptural movement, proudly encased in stainless steel.
Each watch measures 44mm in diameter, with the LM Perpetual at 17.5mm thick and the Sequential Flyback at 18.2mm thick.
Craftsmanship and Features
The dial features a rhodium-plated finish, which harmonizes beautifully with the black lacquered subdials and blued hands.
Achieving the black lacquer finish posed a significant challenge since even the tiniest speck of dust could ruin its visual impact.
The ‘Longhorn’ lugs are particularly eye-catching, offering a subtle difference that becomes clearer with a closer look.
Their design ensures comfort for any wrist size, as wearers can easily adjust the lug holes for strap attachment.
Inside both models lies exemplary craftsmanship, with hand-finished bevels, Geneva stripes, and ornate engravings that speak to the artistry of their movements.
In honor of MB&F’s 20th anniversary, production will be limited to just 20 pieces of each model, priced at CHF 168,000 plus VAT.
Specifications
- Brand: MB&F
- Models: LM Perpetual and LM Sequential Flyback
- Diameter: 44mm for each model
- Thickness: 17.5mm (LM Perpetual), 18.2mm (LM Sequential Flyback)
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Dial Color: Black glossy lacquer with rhodium-plated base plates
- Water Resistance: 30m
- Strap: Calf leather with a stainless steel folding buckle
Movement Features
– Caliber: Integrated perpetual calendar engineered by Stephen McDonnell (LM Perpetual); integrated dual chronograph flyback system crafted by Stephen McDonnell (LM Sequential Flyback)
– Power Reserve: 72 hours for both models
– Winding Mechanism: Manual for each
– Notable Features: Sapphire crystals treated with an anti-reflective coating on both the front and the display back.
Availability and Pricing
– Price: CHF 168,000 plus VAT
– Availability: Now available for purchase
– Edition Limit: Only 20 pieces for each model
Source: Hodinkee