MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision: A Sublime Fusion of Design and Engineering

Unveiled in 2018 as the Horological Machine N°9 ‘Flow,’ a creation inspired by the sleek lines of 1940s and 50s automotive and aviation design, the HM9 from MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends) has undergone an astonishing transformation. Merging cutting-edge engineering with artistic innovation, the HM9 Sapphire Vision emerges as a captivating testament to the brand’s relentless pursuit of horological excellence.

The original HM9 ‘Flow’ astounded watch aficionados with its unique case design that elegantly channeled the dynamic contours of a bygone era. The movement concealed within was hailed as MB&F’s most exquisite creation to date. In a logical evolution, MB&F took the concept further, encasing this mechanical marvel within a transparent sapphire crystal shell – thus birthing the Horological Machine N°9 ‘Sapphire Vision,’ or HM9-SV for short.

In 2023, two exceptional editions join the HM9-SV lineup, each a harmonious synthesis of precious metals and sapphire crystal. The first features a white gold frame accentuated by a blue PVD-coated engine, while the second boasts yellow gold paired with a PVD-coated green engine. Limited to a mere five pieces each, these editions represent not only a timepiece but an exclusive work of art.

A testament to MB&F’s commitment to its clientele, worldwide shipping is offered with no added cost. However, any local customs duties and applicable taxes at the destination country remain the responsibility of the buyer.

The HM9-SV stands as an engineering marvel, encapsulated within a curved and multi-part hull crafted from sapphire crystal and precious metals. Its meticulous assembly, secured by an exclusive blend of patented three-dimensional gaskets and advanced compound bonding processes, ensures its exceptional durability.

Two fully independent cantilevered balance wheels work in tandem, their data harmonized through a differential mechanism, resulting in a single unified time pulse. This pulse is guided by ultra-precise conical gears that seamlessly redirect the movement’s energy, culminating in a striking time display on a sapphire crystal dial. Enhanced with Super-LumiNova, this dial becomes an exquisite play of light and clarity.

On the reverse side, beneath each balance wheel, propellers resembling those of aeronautical marvels add a touch of kinetic artistry. These twin turbines spin freely, adding a visual spectacle to the watch’s inherent mechanical prowess. Having conquered the realms of land and sky with the ‘Air’ and ‘Road’ editions, HM9-SV dives into the enigmatic depths of the ocean, a realm still rich with mysteries waiting to be unveiled.

The visionary behind this horological masterpiece is Maximilian Büsser, the founder who dared to defy conventional watchmaking paradigms in 2005 by establishing MB&F – Maximilian Büsser & Friends. This unconventional laboratory assembles independent watchmaking talents to craft radical timepieces, celebrating their collective creativity. MB&F transcends traditional watchmaking by transforming it into three-dimensional kinetic art, respecting heritage while pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Delving into the technical intricacies, the HM9-SV’s manually-wound, in-house movement boasts two fully independent balance wheels paired with a planetary differential mechanism. Operating at a frequency of 2.5Hz (18,000bph), the movement comprises 301 components and 52 jewels. The addition of dual spherical propellers underlines the watch’s uniqueness. Shock-absorbing helicoidal springs create a seamless connection between the movement and the case, enhancing its durability and performance.

The captivating sapphire crystal case is accentuated by an 18K white or yellow gold frame, featuring an assembly process that combines patented three-dimensional gaskets and advanced bonding compounds. Water-resistant up to 30 meters, the case safeguards the intricate mechanics within.

Powering the HM9-SV is a manual winding mechanism with a single mainspring barrel, providing an impressive 45-hour power reserve. The vertical sapphire crystal dial, treated with anti-reflective coating, displays hours and minutes with exceptional clarity, further accentuated by Super-LumiNova on the numerals and indexes.

With dimensions of 57mm x 47mm x 23mm, the HM9-SV presents a substantial yet refined presence. It comes paired with a hand-stitched alligator strap in brown or black, complemented by a folding buckle matching the case’s gold frame.

This exclusive horological masterpiece is offered in two equally rare editions, each limited to only five pieces. The first edition features an 18K white gold frame coupled with a PVD-coated blue engine, while the second edition showcases an 18K yellow gold frame matched with a PVD-coated green engine.

A symphony of sapphire crystals enhances the HM9-SV’s allure, with five treated crystals contributing to its enchanting aesthetic. Three crystals envelop the primary case components, one covers the dial, and the final crystal forms the dial itself – each treated to reduce reflections and enhance visibility.

In the realm of horology, the HM9 Sapphire Vision stands as a remarkable testament to the seamless fusion of art and engineering. A masterpiece conceived by Maximilian Büsser & Friends, it pays homage to the past while boldly propelling watchmaking into the future. As the HM9-SV sets its course for horological exploration, it invites its fortunate wearers to embark on a journey of both aesthetic wonder and technical innovation.