Deeply inspired by pilot watches and the model aircraft from Max Büsser's childhood, the HM4* is an adult take on a fond hobby – sleek, futuristic, with just a hint of steampunk. A complex example with its titanium and sapphire glass case, the watch lives up to the spirit of the horological machines, closer to the kinetic sculpture that the brand strives for, meant to be worn and admired.

Founded by Maximilian Büsser nearly twenty years ago, in 2005, MB&F have become known for their innovative, conceptual watches made in small numbers and which seek to push the boundaries of how we see time. Their approach to watchmaking focuses on collaboration and bringing handcrafted methods to their futuristic ideas. Their Horological Machines are kinetic sculptures intended to tease out the imagination, displaying time in entirely unconventional ways. This HM4 is an ambitious interpretation of their mission, with its avantgarde, steampunk design.
 
The HM4 was introduced in 2010, and this Thunderbolt edition was their first release, winning the Best Concept and Design Prize at the GPHG Awards in that year. Inspired by Max Büsser's childhood pastime, assembling model aircraft, the watch is modelled after the A-10 plane, an American aircraft from the 1970s renowned for its design, particularly with regards to the twin jet engines mounted near the tail-end of the plane. In keeping with the aviator inspiration, the watch also gives the impression of a set of pilot goggles, further adding to its steampunk charm.
 
Unlike its descendants, the Thunderbolt pares it down to the essentials. The case is constructed from several parts and materials, making this a complex piece to manufacture. Additionally, it combines angles and curves to great effect, with several artfully placed sapphire sections revealing more of the watch's inner workings and providing a retrofuturistic appearance. Despite its unconventional shape, the watch fits comfortably on the wrist thanks to the thinner, unusual hinge used for the strap. In the centre of the watch is another sapphire crystal section, with the balance wheel visible below. Two crowns are found at the ends of each of the "engines", with the one on the left to wind the watch, and the one on the right to aid in setting the time.
 
At the time, Max Büsser called the HM4 MB&F's most legible watch to date, and this is evident when you take a glance at the engine openings of the watch, with the power reserve on the left and a simple time-only dial on the right. There is no trick to reading the time here, and significant inspiration is derived from pilot watches of the 40s. The dial is black, with white indexes, luminous arrow-shaped hands, and a triangle at 12 o'clock, all choices to enhance the legibility of the watch. Furthermore, the dials are set at an angle when the watch is worn, making it easy for the wearer to glance down and read the time.
 
The movement that powers this watch was developed over three years in conjunction with Laurent Besse and Beranger Reynard at Les Artisans Horlogers. It consists of 311 parts, and it makes use of dual mainspring barrels, which are connected to twin vertical gear trains, ensuring a smooth transfer of power. Turning the watch over reveals another sapphire caseback, allowing us to view the brushed surfaces of the parts, further pushing the industrial aesthetic of the overall piece.

A Collected Man is a Pre-Owned Approved partner of MB&F, a relationship which stems from the deep appreciation we have for the work of Maximillian Büsser and his friends. We are pleased to note that MB&F has graciously offered a complimentary service to the buyer within the first six months after the sale.

Closer look

Condition

This MB&F HM4 Thunderbolt is in very good overall condition. The case shows light superficial marks, though only on the very surface of the material. The dial and movement are free from any signs of imperfections and have been well preserved. On the caseback, the engravings are crisp and well defined.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity. MB&F has additionally offered a complimentary service to the future owner which can be exercised within the first six months of purchase, extending the warranty by a further two years from the date of completion.