MB&F HM9 ‘Sapphire Vision’: Redefining Watchmaking with Crystal Clarity
Two new HM9-SV iterations within sapphire crystal, once more limited to five pieces each: a yellow gold frame adorned with a green-CVD movement and a white gold frame with a blue-CVD movement.
In the world of Haute Horlogerie, where time is both an art and a science, one name consistently pushes the boundaries of innovation and design: MB&F. In 2018, they introduced the Horological Machine N°9, affectionately known as HM9 ‘Flow.’ This exceptional timepiece was a tribute to the mesmerizing designs of the 1940s and 50s in the automotive and aeronautic realms. The result was an unprecedented case that elegantly echoed the flowing, aerodynamic lines of that era.
However, as captivating as its external appearance was, the true marvel lay within. MB&F founder Maximilian Büsser described the movement inside the HM9 as “the most beautiful movement we’ve created to date.” This declaration, coupled with the inherent urge for constant improvement, led MB&F to embark on the next chapter of the HM9 saga – the Horological Machine N°9 ‘Sapphire Vision,’ or HM9-SV.
What sets the HM9-SV apart is its audacious approach to transparency. The iconic Horological Machine N°9’s engine, a masterpiece of intricate gears and mechanisms, is housed in a transparent sapphire crystal case, resulting in a timepiece that is a harmonious union of horological artistry and engineering precision.
The external aesthetic is a symphony of sapphire crystal and precious metal, meticulously curved and fitted into three distinct parts. Beyond its visual allure, this case is a result of innovative engineering brought together by a proprietary combination of patented three-dimensional gaskets and a high-tech compound bonding process.
At the heart of the HM9-SV, two fully independent balance wheels with planetary differential operate in tandem. This exquisite precision is driven by conical gears that transmit the engine’s energy, culminating in a captivating sapphire crystal dial adorned with Super-LumiNova. This is not merely a watch; it’s a kinetic work of art that transcends timekeeping.
Where the previous iterations of HM9 explored the air and the road, HM9-SV takes its exploratory journey to the ocean’s depths. This realm of mysteries and wonders serves as a fitting inspiration for a timepiece that defies conventions. The smooth lines of the HM9-SV’s exterior glide over blueprints of its predecessors, embodying the fluid dynamics that remain a signature of MB&F’s design ethos. These lines, inspired by the ocean’s grace, are both a visual delight and a testament to engineering innovation.
Beyond its captivating aesthetics, the HM9-SV boasts a movement that shatters traditional concepts. Its intricate gears, wheels, plates, and bridges coalesce into a three-dimensional masterpiece, residing within a sapphire crystal body. This fusion of mechanics and aesthetics is a testament to MB&F’s relentless pursuit of pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.
While the traditional balance frequency of 2.5Hz may seem unconventional in modern timekeeping, the HM9-SV’s dual-balance system compensates for this choice. This system, akin to the beating of two hearts, not only enhances accuracy but also resilience against shocks. Helicoidal springs, carefully crafted from polished stainless steel, further bolster shock resistance, ensuring the watch can withstand the challenges of an active lifestyle.
The MB&F HM9-SV isn’t just about showcasing mechanics; it invites you to witness its inner workings. Every element, from the barrel to the balance, is exposed to discovery, encouraging horological enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the beauty of the movement. Crafting the sapphire crystal exterior of the HM9-SV is no small feat. Sapphire crystal’s exceptional hardness is both its strength and challenge. The watchmakers at MB&F invest over 350 hours in meticulously machining and polishing the crystals for a single case.
In the world of watchmaking, the HM9 ‘Sapphire Vision’ emerges as an epitome of ingenuity, creativity, and craftsmanship. It’s not just a watch; it’s a journey into the art of timekeeping, a fusion of artistic expression and technical mastery. With every tick and tock, the HM9-SV invites you to witness time in a new light – as an ever-evolving masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in horology.
Price & Availability
Both versions of the HM9-SV are available at select MB&F retailers, and each is limited to 5 pieces.
- MB&F HM9-SV White Gold Blue, Ref 91.SWL.BU: CHF 420,000 + VAT, USD 490,000, EUR 440,000 + tax
- MB&F HM9-SV Yellow Gold Green, Ref 91.SWL.BU: CHF 420,000 + VAT, USD 490,000, EUR 440,000 + tax
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