MB&F Legacy Machine 101 Palladium - Limited to 18 pieces

Origin

A watch brand, a creative house, a self-proclaimed 'artistic concept laboratory', MB&F only conforms to one rule: none of them. Respecting tradition but not guided by it, Maximilian Büsser (the MB aspect of its name) heads up MB&F and specialises in getting lost in the magical wonder of horological possibilities with unlimited creative boundaries. Founded in 2005, MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends) creates revolutionary mechanical timepieces that challenge the status quo with radically unique designs, sources of inspiration, and mechanical prowess. Having cut his professional teeth at Jaeger-LeCoultre and as the CEO of Harry Winston, Maximilian Büsser left to establish his watch brand, which, along with trusted partners, has to date gone on to produce over 20 bespoke calibres. Creativity is one of the leading principles of MB&F, and it ensures the brand upholds the 'F' aspect of its name by working closely and collaborating with talented horological professionals.

Debuting in 2014, the LM101 was the inaugural creation to feature an in-house calibre, co-created with the help of Kari Voutilainen. Celebrating the essence of mechanical timekeeping, the LM101 suspends the beating heart of any mechanical watch by two imposing bridges centre of the dial - the escapement & balance wheel. Despite its complex construction and visual presence, the LM101 is a piece with straightforward functionality, offering just the hours, minutes, and a power reserve indicator. Nevertheless, its forthright preference has surely played a role in becoming the brand's signature model, with various editions coming to fruition that explores materials, dial colours, finishes and styles, let alone collaboration pieces. As an ambitious and pioneering player in the independent watchmaking scene, the LM101 is relatively tame compared to their other creations, which is a crucial component of its appeal.

The Watch

As a brand shy of basically nothing, this MB&F LM101 delivers whimsicality alongside mastering a usual metal, Palladium. The LM101 is a cherished cornerstone of the MB&F lineup, with this example of an 18-piece run underscoring just how special a Legacy Machine is. It's a timepiece that's beauty is achieved through the synergy of mechanics and sophisticated advancement, with its externals carrying a classic bold yet restrained structure. Brushed on the case's side with a contrasting polished finish for the bezel and lugs, this palladium exterior is a masterclass in balance. Palladium is a white metal from the platinum group with a unique shine. Despite being a heavier metal, it is one of the lightest in its group and is slightly more scratch resistant than platinum. Furthermore, it is one of the rarest metals and is estimated to be 15 times rarer than platinum and extremely difficult to work with.

When the LM101 Palladium was announced in 2019, it was the first watch by MB&F to use this expensive material. As such, an equally gorgeous dial in the form of the calming tones of this vert d'eau face was fitted. Not totally green in colour nor totally blue, this LM101 possesses a mesmerising radial sunburst canvas which echoes the glow achieved by its unusual case material. The watch is adorned with unmatched dial architecture fundamental to its function but, in equal measure, its character. Two small traditional dials sit in the two and six o'clock positions. Both are white lacquer, slightly domed, feature blued-gold hands, and sit above the base dial as if floating. At two o'clock, the hours and minutes are presented, with a set of thin Roman numerals along with the MB&F signature. At six o'clock, a smaller power reserve indicator dial informs the wearer when the supersized balance wheel begins to run low on its power source. Securely positioned below the high domed crystal and measuring 14mm, the three-dimensional "flying" balance wheel beats at 18,000 vph and is profoundly suspended above the centre of the dial by its arching balance bridge. The escapement wheel and anchor sit beneath the commanding balance and are held by a bridge mirroring the one for the balance on a smaller and flatter scale. 'Legacy Machine' is freehand engraved at the lower right-hand portion of the dial by Kari Voutilainen and represents a forward-facing feature which marks the joint partnership between Kari and MB&F.

The Movement

In their own words, the movement is a three-dimensional horological movement developed in-house by MB&F. This manually wound, single mainspring barrel movement offers 45 hours of autonomy and is an amalgamation of 229 components with a selection of its 23 jewels being set in high polished gold chatons. The hand finishing of this movement honours techniques and appearances of 19th-century style with Geneva striping, beautifully polished chamfers, and impressive bridge structures. Furthermore, engraving isn't just restricted to the front of the watch, as the movement of this piece features further Kari Voutilainen engraving to celebrate his involvement and assistance in creating this now legendary model.

How It Wears

On paper, the LM101 Palladium measures 40mm in width and a substantial 16mm in height, but that thickness isn't as daunting as it may seem in the metal. With a good chunk of its height attributed to the domed crystal and the low case flank placement, this is an MB&F with a sensible yet wildly particular wrist presence. The balance wheel, bridges, and sea green canvas share the limelight with confidence. There is no confusing this piece for anything other than an MB&F, and its neutral sunburst face has unisex qualities in abundance. There are few more memorable ways to celebrate the art of timekeeping than this seldom seen LM101.

Condition

This MB&F LM101 Palladium is presented in very good condition along with its full box and paperwork. Also included in the sale is the model's original palladium butterfly buckle.