Introducing The New MB&F HM6 “Space Pirate”

We were very lucky to get a first glimpse of the HM6 during BaselWorld 2014, and ever since we’ve been biting our tongues in anticipation of its launch. But finally, we can talk about the new piece, the latest in MB&F’s Horological Machine collection. And there’s a lot to say.

Max Busser likes to have fun designing his pieces. In case you’re not familiar with the brand, you can read all about it from our most recent manufacture visit.  Each timepiece in the HM collection has a great story, usually inspired by existing concepts such as the Lamborghini Miura-inspired HM5. But this may be our favorite yet.

According to the man himself, the HM6 is inspired by a spaceship from one of his favorite Japanese anime TV series. As a child, Max was a big fan of Capitaine Flam (Captain Future in English), a character who flew around space in a ship called the Comet that consisted of two spheres joined by a connecting tube.

A few years ago, Büsser started to imagine a similar concept for a spaceship that would fit on his wrist, and so the seeds of the HM6 were planted. Nicknamed the “Space Pirate,” it does indeed looks like it crash-landed from outer space.

The most eye-catching aspect of the new design is the four corners of HM6’s biomorphic case, which each feature a 360° sphere, capped top and bottom by transparent sapphire crystal domes.

In front, two semi-spherical indications rotate vertically (90° to the Engine), respectively displaying hours and minutes in large, highly legible numerals. At the back, twin spherical turbines spin horizontally, automatically regulating the winding system in case of excessive speed to reduce stress and wear. Overall, the engine took more than three years to develop.

At the center of it all, a dome which houses a 60-second flying tourbillon, developed by Dominique Lauper specifically for HM6. Because UV radiation speeds up oxidation of lubricating oils in the escapement and movement, the flying tourbillon can be protected by a retractable titanium shield that envelops the tourbillon. A crown at 9 o’clock opens and closes the cover in – and like – the blink of an eye. Max Busser calls this “going into light speed.”

If you’re familiar with the Horological Machines, you’ll know that however unusual MB&F’s creations may seem, they turn out to be incredibly comfortable to wear. This one is no exception, thanks to its lightweight titanium case, and pivoted lugs that fit snugly around the wrist

Aesthetically, it’s bound to divide opinion. But that’s fine for MB&F. The watch brand is more concerned with the artistic expressions of its creative lab than the commercialization of its product. And given the passion of its collectors, this one’s bound to fly off the shelves.

Photo Credit: Haute Time. For more, please visit the official MB&F website.