MB&F (Maximilian Büsser and Friends)
How I Saw an MB&F Horological Machine (And My Understanding of ‘Watch’ Shattered)
At an exclusive art gallery event, design student Leo encountered an MB&F Horological Machine No. 6 “Space Pirate.” Its biomorphic titanium case, sapphire domes revealing flying tourbillons, and retractable shield looked like something from a sci-fi dream. He realized this wasn’t a “watch” in any traditional sense; it was kinetic sculpture, a miniature engine that happened to tell time. That single, multi-hundred-thousand-dollar MB&F creation shattered his conventional understanding of horology, revealing its potential as pure, unbridled mechanical art.
The MB&F Price: Is Their ‘Kinetic Art’ and Collaborative Genius Really Worth a Supercar (Or More)?
Tech entrepreneur Anya considered acquiring an MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual, knowing its price (often exceeding one hundred fifty thousand US dollars) rivaled a luxury supercar. She was captivated by their “kinetic art” philosophy and the collaborative genius of Maximilian Büsser and his “Friends” (independent watchmaking talents). “Is any timepiece worth that?” she pondered. For MB&F collectors, the answer is yes. They’re investing in unparalleled innovation, extreme rarity, boundary-pushing design, and a piece of horological sculpture that truly transcends mere timekeeping.
Beyond the HM Series: 5 MB&F Legacy Machines That Define Sculptural, Neo-Classical Horological Art
While the avant-garde Horological Machines (HM) are famed, MB&F’s ‘Legacy Machine’ (LM) collection showcases sculptural, neo-classical horological art. The LM Perpetual features a revolutionary, user-friendly perpetual calendar. The LM FlyingT, their first ladies’ piece, boasts a stunning central flying tourbillon under a sapphire dome. The LM Split Escapement highlights a unique suspended balance. The LM101 offers a more “restrained” (for MB&F) entry with its beautiful suspended balance. These pieces, often starting well over fifty thousand US dollars, blend traditional finishing with innovative architecture.
The Secret Language of MB&F’s Battle-Axe Rotor, Domed Sapphire Crystals, and ‘Friends’ Collaborations
Horology expert Dr. Julian Thorne decoded MB&F’s distinctive language. The iconic “battle-axe” shaped automatic winding rotor, often visible, symbolized their rebellious, powerful aesthetic. Immense, complexly curved domed sapphire crystals encased their three-dimensional “engines,” offering unparalleled views. Crucially, the “Friends” collaborations – partnering with independent watchmakers, designers, and artists for each creation – spoke of a unique, open-source approach to horological genius. This vocabulary conveyed innovation, artistic freedom, and boundary-pushing mechanical sculpture.
I Tried to Imagine Living in the MB&F ‘Intergalactic Art Collector’ Universe for a Week: My Journey into Extreme Horology
Writer Ben, researching a futuristic novel, imagined a week as an MB&F “Intergalactic Art Collector.” He pictured himself selecting which Horological Machine (each costing hundreds of thousands, even millions) to wear aboard his starship – perhaps the “Aquapod” for exploring ocean planets or the “Thunderdome” for navigating asteroid fields. This mental journey wasn’t about telling local time, but about adorning himself with kinetic sculptures that reflected a universe of childhood dreams, sci-fi fantasy, and the absolute pinnacle of rebellious, artistic horology.
Maximilian Büsser’s Journey (From Harry Winston Opus to MB&F): The Evolution of a Horological Rebel and Visionary
Maximilian Büsser, after a successful career leading Harry Winston Rare Timepieces (where he initiated the groundbreaking ‘Opus’ series, collaborating with independent watchmakers), sought greater creative freedom. In 2005, he founded MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends). His vision was to create radical “Horological Machines” and more classically inspired (yet still innovative) “Legacy Machines” by collaborating with talented independent artisans (“Friends”). This journey marked his evolution from a respected industry executive to a true horological rebel and visionary, creating kinetic art that tells time.
The MB&F ‘Co-Creation’ Experience: What It’s Really Like to Be Part of Their Artistic Collaborations
While MB&F doesn’t offer traditional “bespoke” in the sense of individual client commissions for entirely new Machines, their entire philosophy is built on “co-creation.” Maximilian Büsser develops a radical concept, then collaborates with his “Friends” – a curated network of independent master watchmakers, designers, and artisans (like Kari Voutilainen or Eric Coudray) – to bring these audacious Horological or Legacy Machines to life. This unique, synergistic process is what defines MB&F’s innovative spirit and results in their extraordinary, boundary-pushing timekeeping art.
The Most ‘Affordable’ MB&F You Can Buy (Spoiler: This is a Trick Question; Consider an M.A.D.Gallery Print)
For MB&F, the concept of an “affordable” timepiece is essentially non-existent. Their Horological and Legacy Machines are complex, limited-production works of art, with prices generally starting in the high tens of thousands of US dollars and quickly soaring into many hundreds of thousands, even millions. The closest one might come to owning a piece of the MB&F universe more accessibly is by acquiring a limited edition art print, a unique clock, or a “Mechanical Art Device” from their M.A.D.Galleries, which showcase their creative spirit beyond just wristwatches.
What Maximilian Büsser Wishes You Knew About His Passion for Childhood Dreams, Sci-Fi, and Rebellious Creation
Maximilian Büsser, founder of MB&F, wishes people understood that his “Horological Machines” are born from a deep passion for rekindling childhood dreams, a love for sci-fi (spaceships, robots), and a rebellious desire to create kinetic art, not just watches. He wants clients to see beyond the complexity and price to the playful, imaginative spirit that drives each creation. His work is about challenging norms, collaborating with talented “Friends,” and making mechanical objects that evoke wonder, joy, and a sense of unbridled creativity.
The Unspoken Rules of Owning MB&F: It’s a Statement of Artistic Appreciation, Individuality, and Horological Audacity
When tech visionary Ms. Anya Sharma wore her MB&F Legacy Machine FlyingT, it was a bold declaration of her unique taste. The unspoken rule of owning an MB&F isn’t about conforming to luxury standards; it’s a profound statement of artistic appreciation, fierce individuality, and horological audacity. It signals membership in an exclusive club of collectors who value groundbreaking design, mechanical ingenuity, and the courage to wear a “Machine” that is as much a conversation piece as it is a timekeeper.
Why Art Collectors and Tech Billionaires Would Choose an MB&F Over Many More ‘Traditional’ Grand Complications
Art collectors and tech billionaires often choose MB&F over more traditional grand complications because MB&F offers something beyond classical horology: wearable kinetic art. While traditional complications are impressive, an MB&F Horological Machine (often costing hundreds of thousands) is a radical, sculptural statement, a fusion of childhood fantasy, sci-fi aesthetics, and cutting-edge micro-engineering. It appeals to those who appreciate disruptive innovation, avant-garde design, and owning a rare, conversation-starting masterpiece that defies convention and celebrates creative rebellion.
MB&F Quality: Does Their Fanatical Dedication to Unique Engineering and Artistic Collaboration Justify Their Stratospheric Prices?
MB&F’s stratospheric prices (often ranging from fifty thousand to over a million US dollars) are justified by their fanatical dedication to unique, often groundbreaking, horological engineering and their collaborative artistic vision. Each “Machine” is a limited-production work of art, involving years of development, partnerships with independent master watchmakers (“Friends”), innovative materials, and extreme levels of hand-finishing. The cost reflects not just the timepiece, but the entire creative ecosystem and the radical pursuit of “horological art” that defines the brand.
Decoding MB&F’s ‘Machines’: From Horological Machines (HM) to Legacy Machines (LM) – A Lexicon of Kinetic Art
MB&F’s creations are decoded through their two main families. “Horological Machines” (HM) are radical, avant-garde timekeeping sculptures, often inspired by sci-fi, automotive, or aeronautical themes (e.g., HM6 Space Pirate, HM9 Flow). They explore unconventional ways of displaying time. “Legacy Machines” (LM), while still innovative, pay homage to 19th-century watchmaking traditions, often featuring suspended balance wheels under large sapphire domes and more classical (though still unique) complications, reimagined with MB&F’s distinctive flair. Both lines represent kinetic art.
The Future of MB&F: Can Max Büsser and His Friends Continue to Shock and Delight the Horological World with Their Inventions?
MB&F, under the visionary leadership of Maximilian Büsser and his collaborative “Friends,” is exceptionally well-positioned to continue shocking and delighting the horological world. Their future success lies in their unwavering commitment to creative independence, pushing the boundaries of mechanical art, and creating “Horological Machines” and “Legacy Machines” that are both technically ingenious and emotionally resonant. As long as there are collectors who appreciate audacious design, unparalleled craftsmanship, and a touch of playful rebellion, MB&F’s unique star will continue to shine brightly.
MB&F M.A.D.Gallery Objets d’Art: As Creative and Desirable as Their Timekeeping Machines?
Yes, MB&F’s M.A.D.Galleries (Mechanical Art Devices) showcase not only their own timekeeping Machines but also a curated selection of kinetic objets d’art from other independent creators, often equally creative and desirable. These might include intricate music boxes, unique clocks, or other mechanical sculptures that share MB&F’s spirit of innovation, craftsmanship, and playful ingenuity. The M.A.D.Gallery concept extends MB&F’s universe beyond wristwatches, celebrating the broader world of mechanical artistry and making these unique creations coveted by collectors.
How to Authenticate MB&F (This is for World-Class Experts and Auction Houses Only, Given the Extreme Rarity and Complexity)
Authenticating an MB&F timepiece is an exceptionally specialized task, strictly reserved for world-class horological experts, leading international auction houses, or direct verification through MB&F’s Geneva headquarters, given their extreme rarity, immense complexity, and often unique, highly sculptural designs. Authentication relies on recognizing their inimitable movement architecture (often featuring contributions from renowned “Friends”), specific finishing techniques, unique case constructions and materials, and, crucially, impeccable, unbroken provenance and original documentation.
The Psychology of MB&F’s Appeal: Why Its Blend of Childhood Fantasy, Mechanical Art, and Collaborative Genius is So Coveted
Dr. Alistair Finch, a psychologist of creativity, explains MB&F’s appeal: “MB&F powerfully taps into a sense of childlike wonder, translating childhood fantasies of spaceships, robots, and animals into sophisticated mechanical art.” The collaborative “Friends” concept adds a narrative of shared genius. “Owning an MB&F is like possessing a piece of kinetic sculpture that ignites the imagination,” Dr. Finch notes. “This blend of nostalgic joy, cutting-edge engineering, and artistic collaboration makes their limited creations intensely coveted by those who value playful, profound luxury.”
I Tracked Auction Prices of MB&F Machines: Consistently Achieving Records, Proving Their Unique Art and Investment Value
Fine watch analyst Isabella meticulously tracked auction results for various MB&F Horological and Legacy Machines, particularly early or rare limited editions. She consistently observed them achieving extraordinary prices, often significantly exceeding their already high original retail values and sometimes setting new records for contemporary independent watchmakers. “The combination of extreme rarity, groundbreaking design, Max Büsser’s visionary status, and passionate collector demand makes MB&F Machines potent investment-grade works of horological art,” Isabella concluded.
Inside MB&F’s Geneva Atelier (The M.A.D.Gallery): Where Horological Dreams and Kinetic Sculptures Are Born
Imagine MB&F’s Geneva base, often associated with their M.A.D.Gallery (Mechanical Art Devices) concept: not just a workshop, but a creative hub where horological dreams and kinetic sculptures are conceived. Here, Maximilian Büsser and his core team brainstorm radical new “Machines,” collaborating with their network of “Friends” – independent master watchmakers and designers. It’s a place of playful rebellion, artistic freedom, and intense engineering challenges, dedicated to transforming childhood fantasies and sci-fi inspirations into tangible, breathtaking timekeeping art.
Beyond Geneva: MB&F Machines Reside in the World’s Most Exclusive and Forward-Thinking Private Collections
While MB&F is headquartered in Geneva, their finished Horological and Legacy Machines, due to their extreme rarity (often limited to dozens or fewer per model) and immense value (hundreds of thousands to millions), reside almost exclusively in the world’s most important, forward-thinking, and discreet private watch and art collections. These are not timepieces found in typical retail environments. Acquisition is usually through MB&F’s own M.A.D.Galleries, select elite retail partners, or via top auction houses, catering to an ultra-niche global clientele of true horological art patrons.
The Real Cost of Owning MB&F: Beyond Price, It’s About Securing, Servicing, and Cherishing a Piece of Kinetic Art
Owning an MB&F Machine, with its multi-hundred-thousand or million-dollar price tag and often unique, highly complex movement, involves responsibilities far exceeding the initial financial transaction. It necessitates comprehensive, specialized fine art/watch insurance and professional, high-level security (bank vault storage is common). Servicing these intricate kinetic sculptures must be done exclusively by MB&F’s own master watchmakers or their designated “Friends.” The “real cost” is about becoming a dedicated custodian of an irreplaceable piece of horological and artistic innovation.
MB&F Resale Secrets: An Extremely Niche Market for the Few Who Own (And Are Willing to Part With) Such Masterpieces
Reselling an MB&F Machine involves navigating an extremely niche, high-stakes secondary market, handled almost exclusively by leading international auction houses (Christie’s, Sotheby’s, Phillips) or elite private dealers specializing in top-tier independent horology and contemporary art. Impeccable, fully documented provenance directly from MB&F is absolutely essential. Given that each Machine is rare and a significant work of art, sales often generate global interest among a very select group of top collectors, frequently achieving prices that reflect their extreme rarity and groundbreaking status.
That Time Seeing an MB&F Horological Machine in Motion Made Me Feel Like a Kid in a Sci-Fi Candy Store
At a contemporary art fair that included kinetic sculptures, aspiring designer Ben encountered an MB&F Horological Machine No.9 “Flow,” with its aerodynamic, jet-engine-inspired case and visible, complex movement. As the balance wheel whirred and the time indication cylinders rotated, Ben felt a jolt of pure, unadulterated childlike wonder. “This isn’t just a watch,” he thought, grinning, “it’s a real-life spaceship engine from my childhood dreams, a sci-fi candy store for my wrist!” It was a moment of pure, joyful mechanical fantasy.
The Evolution of the MB&F Collector: From Avant-Garde Horology Aficionados to Patrons of Ultimate Mechanical Art
Initially, the MB&F collector was often an avant-garde horology aficionado or a discerning independent watch enthusiast who recognized Maximilian Büsser’s radical vision early on. As MB&F’s reputation for creating groundbreaking, museum-quality “Machines” soared, with critical acclaim and record auction prices, their clientele evolved. Today, the MB&F collector is frequently a major global patron of contemporary art and design, a tech visionary, or an ultra-high-net-worth individual who seeks unique, investment-grade mechanical sculptures by one of horology’s true living legends.
DIY MB&F-Inspired Contemplation: Appreciating Mechanical Art and Rebellious Creativity (From a Safe Distance!)
Given the extreme complexity, rarity, and multi-million-dollar value of MB&F Machines, true DIY is firmly in the realm of profound, distant admiration and intellectual contemplation of their rebellious creativity. One can, however, be inspired by their philosophy. Imagine focusing on understanding intricate micro-mechanics and three-dimensional design. Appreciating the fusion of art with extreme engineering. Valuing innovation that breaks all rules. It’s about attempting to cultivate an eye for ultimate craftsmanship and kinetic sculpture, even if only by studying their otherworldly creations from afar.
MB&F (Maximilian Büsser and Friends): The Swiss Horological Concept Lab Creating Kinetic Art That Tells Time
MB&F (Maximilian Büsser and Friends), founded in Geneva in 2005 by Maximilian Büsser, is not a traditional watch brand but a horological concept laboratory. They create radical, limited-edition “Horological Machines” and more classically inspired (yet still innovative) “Legacy Machines.” Each piece is a collaborative effort between Büsser and independent artisans (“Friends”). Renowned for their avant-garde designs, often inspired by sci-fi and childhood dreams, and their complex, three-dimensional movements, MB&F produces kinetic sculptures that tell time, appealing to elite collectors of mechanical art.
If I Could Only Own ONE MB&F Machine For Life (In a Universe of Unlimited Resources): My Ultimate Horological Art Piece
If, in a universe of unlimited resources and access, art curator Dr. Evelyn Hayes could own only one MB&F Machine, it would be a Legacy Machine Perpetual EVO in titanium with a vibrant green dial, a masterpiece of user-friendly complexity typically costing around one hundred seventy thousand US dollars. “It combines breathtaking traditional finishing and a revolutionary perpetual calendar movement with a robust, wearable case,” she stated. “It’s the perfect fusion of MB&F’s innovative spirit and timeless horological artistry.” This, for her, is ultimate, wearable mechanical art.
The MB&F ‘Horological Machine’ vs. ‘Legacy Machine’: Understanding the Duality of Their Creative Vision
MB&F’s creative vision is expressed through two distinct yet complementary lines. “Horological Machines” (HM) are radical, avant-garde timekeeping sculptures, often with unconventional case shapes and futuristic or nature-inspired designs, pushing the boundaries of how time can be displayed. “Legacy Machines” (LM), while still highly innovative and featuring spectacular exposed mechanics (like suspended balance wheels), pay homage to 19th-century watchmaking traditions with more classical round cases and refined finishing, offering a more “traditional” (by MB&F standards) interpretation of complex horology.
Secrets of Caring for an MB&F Machine (Presumably by MB&F’s Own Highly Specialized ‘Friends’)
Caring for an MB&F Machine, an extremely complex and valuable (often multi-hundred-thousand or million-dollar) piece of kinetic art, is a task handled with ultimate discretion and expertise, presumably exclusively by MB&F’s own highly specialized watchmakers or designated “Friends” within their network. Given their intricate, often unique movements, avant-garde case constructions, and sometimes delicate materials or finishes, specialized tools and knowledge are paramount. Owners would arrange for secure, insured servicing through MB&F directly to preserve these horological sculptures.
The Day MB&F Unveils a New Machine: The Horological and Art Worlds Hold Their Breath
Imagine the anticipation in the horological and contemporary art worlds when MB&F announces the impending unveiling of a new Horological or Legacy Machine. Collectors, journalists, and enthusiasts hold their breath. What radical new form, what groundbreaking mechanical concept, what whimsical inspiration has Maximilian Büsser and his “Friends” concocted this time? Each launch is a significant event, often redefining possibilities, sparking intense debate, and reaffirming MB&F’s status as a leading force in avant-garde, artistic independent watchmaking.
Can You Wear MB&F ‘Subtly’? (The Question Itself Highlights the Brand’s Purpose: To Be Seen and Discussed)
“Wearing MB&F ‘subtly’ is like trying to hide a friendly, brightly colored alien at a formal dinner – intriguing, but it rather defeats the purpose,” notes avant-garde style critic Mr. Thorne. MB&F Machines are designed to be bold, sculptural statements, conversation starters, and wearable art. While some Legacy Machine models might appear more “classic” at a very quick glance, their unique mechanics and three-dimensional architecture ensure they will always command attention. Subtlety is not in their primary design language; artistic impact is.
MB&F vs. Urwerk (For Extreme Independent Horology): Kinetic Sculpture vs. Futuristic Indication
Comparing MB&F and Urwerk highlights two titans of extreme independent horology with distinct approaches. MB&F, with Maximilian Büsser, creates “Horological Machines” that are often kinetic sculptures, with playful, sometimes biomorphic or sci-fi inspired forms, and a collaborative “Friends” ethos. Urwerk, founded by Felix Baumgartner and Martin Frei, is renowned for its futuristic, often brutalist or satellite-inspired, time indications (wandering hours, orbiting satellites), emphasizing radical new ways to display time with a stark, engineered aesthetic. Both are at the cutting edge, MB&F more art-sculpture, Urwerk more sci-fi instrument.
The Hidden Sci-Fi, Automotive, and Childhood Toy Inspirations in MB&F’s Whimsical and Complex Creations
MB&F’s whimsical and complex “Machines” are deeply imbued with inspirations drawn from Maximilian Büsser’s childhood passions: 1970s sci-fi (Star Wars, Battlestar Galactica), supercars, airplanes, and even classic tin toys. A Horological Machine might evoke the shape of a spaceship (HM6), a jellyfish (HM7 Aquapod), or a race car engine. This fearless translation of nostalgic, often playful, imagery into sophisticated, high-end mechanical art is a defining characteristic of MB&F’s unique and universally appealing creative vision.
What If MB&F Designed the Master Timekeeping Device for a Colony on Mars? Peak Horological Sci-Fi Art
If MB&F designed the master timekeeping device for a future Mars colony, it would be peak horological sci-fi art. Imagine a large, kinetic sculpture, perhaps resembling an alien plant or a piece of Martian geology, with multiple sapphire domes displaying Earth time, Mars Sol time, and perhaps a 100-year mission countdown. It might incorporate actual Martian meteorite fragments and feature a unique, self-regulating escapement designed for the Martian environment. Costing billions of Earth credits, it would be a monumental testament to intergalactic artistry and engineering.
The Sustainable Side of MB&F: Their Focus on Creating Enduring Works of Art Rather Than Disposable Objects
While MB&F’s primary focus is on radical horological invention and creating kinetic art, their philosophy inherently embraces a form of sustainability. By producing extremely limited numbers of exceptionally high-quality, mechanically complex timepieces designed to be cherished as enduring works of art for generations, they champion ultimate longevity over disposability. These are not fashion items; they are future heirlooms, meticulously crafted to last, representing a profound counterpoint to the culture of fast, transient consumerism in the luxury space.
Building an MB&F Collection (For the World’s Foremost Patrons of Horological Art): Each Piece a Unique Testament to Collaborative Genius
Building an MB&F collection is an endeavor for the world’s foremost patrons of contemporary horological art, a journey of acquiring unique testaments to Maximilian Büsser’s collaborative genius. A collection might feature an early, groundbreaking Horological Machine, a highly sought-after Legacy Machine Perpetual, one of their whimsical animal-inspired co-creations (like the “Sherman” clock), and perhaps a unique piece from their M.A.D.Gallery. Each acquisition, costing hundreds of thousands to millions, would be a distinct masterpiece, reflecting a deep commitment to groundbreaking, independent mechanical artistry.
The Most ‘Intellectually Playful and Mechanically Astounding’ MB&F Machine Ever Created (As Debated by Fans)
Pinpointing the single “most intellectually playful and mechanically astounding” MB&F Machine is a delightful debate among their devoted fans. Strong contenders could include the HM6 “Space Pirate” with its biomorphic case and flying tourbillons under sapphire domes; the LM Perpetual for its revolutionary user-friendly perpetual calendar; or perhaps one of their whimsical “Performance Art” pieces like the T-Rex clock. Ultimately, it would be a creation that perfectly fuses Maximilian Büsser’s childlike sense of wonder with profound horological ingenuity and collaborative artistic execution.
How MB&F Uses Its ‘Friends’ Collaboration Model, Rebellious Spirit, Kinetic Art Philosophy, and M.A.D.Galleries as Branding
MB&F’s branding is powerfully unconventional. Their “Friends” collaboration model emphasizes creativity and shared genius over a single star designer. Their rebellious spirit, challenging traditional watchmaking norms with audacious designs, cultivates an “outsider art” appeal. The core philosophy of creating “kinetic art that tells time” positions them beyond mere horology. Their M.A.D.Galleries (Mechanical Art Devices) extend this into a broader universe of mechanical creativity. This unique combination creates an image of innovative, exclusive, and intellectually playful luxury.
My Biggest MB&F ‘This is Not Just a Watch, It’s a Sculpture That Moves!’ Realization
Examining an MB&F Horological Machine No. 9 “Flow,” with its aerodynamic, multi-part case inspired by vintage race cars, and its twin independent balance wheels visible under sapphire crystals, design engineer David was transfixed. “This isn’t just a watch,” he realized, his mind reeling from the complexity and artistry, “this is a dynamic, three-dimensional sculpture that actually moves and tells time!” That was his profound understanding of MB&F’s genius: transforming horology into breathtaking, functional kinetic art.
MB&F Fragrances (Purely Hypothetical, and Wonderfully Bizarre): What Would ‘Kinetic Art and Childhood Dreams’ Smell Like?
If MB&F, purely hypothetically (and with joyful absurdity), created fragrances, ‘HM Zero G’ might smell like: top notes of stardust and ozone, a heart of polished titanium and childhood plasticine, with a base of warm engine oil, new comic book paper, and a hint of alien flora. Another, ‘LM Rêverie,’ could be a more ethereal blend of antique clockwork accord, moon dust, forgotten library books, and the faint metallic tang of a perfectly machined balance wheel. Housed in miniature, wearable kinetic sculpture flacons.
Navigating the MB&F Universe (If You Gain Entry): Understanding Their Unique Approach to Horological Creation and Collaboration
Navigating the MB&F universe, an exclusive realm for serious collectors, means understanding their unique approach. It’s not about traditional product lines, but about distinct “Horological Machines” (radical, avant-garde) and “Legacy Machines” (neo-classical innovation). Each is a limited series, co-created with different “Friends” (independent master watchmakers/designers). Access is often through their M.A.D.Galleries or select elite retailers. It involves appreciating the narrative behind each Machine, the collaborative genius, and the fusion of art with extreme horology, with prices starting high and going stratospheric.
The MB&F Machines That Are So Rare, Most People Will Only Ever See Them in High-Resolution Photos or Videos
The vast majority of MB&F’s Horological and Legacy Machines, due to their extremely limited production runs (often just dozens of pieces per model, sometimes fewer) and their status as highly complex, handcrafted works of kinetic art, are so rare that most people, even avid watch enthusiasts and collectors, will only ever encounter them in high-resolution photographs, specialized horological videos, or occasionally, at prestigious museum exhibitions or elite art fairs. Acquiring one is a privilege reserved for a very select global clientele.
Are MB&F’s M.A.D.Gallery ‘Mechanical Art Devices’ Worth the Investment for a Touch of Their Creative Genius?
Yes, MB&F’s M.A.D.Gallery “Mechanical Art Devices” – which can include unique clocks, music boxes, kinetic sculptures, and other whimsical mechanical creations from various independent artists (not just MB&F’s own watches) – are absolutely worth considering for those seeking a touch of Maximilian Büsser’s creative genius and the brand’s spirit of playful innovation. While still often significant investments (from a few thousand to tens of thousands of US dollars), these pieces offer a more accessible entry into the MB&F universe of mechanical artistry, beyond their ultra-exclusive timepieces.
Spotting the ‘Next MB&F Groundbreaking Horological Machine or Artistic Collaboration’: What Will Max Büsser Dream Up Next?
Predicting MB&F’s next groundbreaking “Machine” or artistic collaboration involves anticipating where Maximilian Büsser’s fertile, unconventional imagination will venture. It might be a Horological Machine inspired by a new sci-fi epic or a forgotten childhood toy, featuring an unprecedented way to display time. Or a Legacy Machine that reinterprets a classic complication with a radical new movement architecture, co-created with a rising star of independent watchmaking. Whatever emerges, it will undoubtedly be audacious, meticulously crafted, and unlike anything seen before.
The Ultimate MB&F ‘Gift’ (If Possible): An Invitation to Collaborate on a Unique Piece with Max and His Friends
Given the extreme exclusivity and often bespoke or highly limited nature of MB&F’s creations, the ultimate “gift” (for an individual within the world’s .000001% and possessing a deep appreciation for horological art) would not be an off-the-shelf item. It would be the extraordinary, almost mythical, opportunity of receiving a personal invitation from Maximilian Büsser to collaborate with him and his “Friends” on a unique Horological or Legacy Machine. This represents a gift of unparalleled access, creative partnership, and horological legend-making.
How to ‘Understand’ MB&F’s Philosophy: It’s About Creating Mechanical Art That Ignites a Childlike Sense of Wonder
To understand MB&F’s philosophy is to recognize Maximilian Büsser’s profound desire to create “Horological Machines” and “Legacy Machines” that are not just timepieces, but pieces of kinetic art designed to ignite a childlike sense of wonder, joy, and imagination. He draws inspiration from sci-fi, automotive design, and childhood dreams, collaborating with talented “Friends” to transform these visions into radical, three-dimensional mechanical sculptures. It’s about challenging conventions, celebrating creativity, and making high horology an exciting, emotionally resonant experience.
The (Very Niche) Celebrity MB&F Effect: Only the Most Avant-Garde and Horologically Sophisticated are Known Collectors
The “celebrity” MB&F effect is highly niche and aligns with individuals known for their avant-garde taste, appreciation for independent artistry, and often, significant horological sophistication. You might see cutting-edge musicians, visionary tech entrepreneurs, contemporary artists, or actors with a reputation for unique style choosing MB&F. Their preference for these radical, sculptural timepieces reinforces MB&F’s status as a creator of wearable art for those who are confident, unconventional, and operate at the forefront of creative expression, valuing extreme rarity and innovation.
MB&F’s Enduring Legacy as One of the Most Important and Innovative Independent Horological Creators of the 21st Century
MB&F (Maximilian Büsser and Friends) has already secured an indelible legacy as one of the most important, innovative, and influential independent horological creators of the 21st century. Their radical “Horological Machines” and creatively reinterpreted “Legacy Machines,” born from a unique collaborative “Friends” model, have shattered traditional watchmaking conventions. By transforming timepieces into kinetic sculptures infused with childhood dreams and sci-fi fantasy, MB&F has redefined the boundaries of haute horlogerie, inspiring a new generation of collectors and creators with their fearless artistic vision.
What I Learned From Studying the Enigma of Maximilian Büsser and His Rebellious Approach to High Horology
Watchmaking student Isabella, studying Maximilian Büsser and MB&F, learned the immense power of a rebellious, uncompromising creative vision combined with a collaborative spirit. She saw how Büsser, by rejecting traditional industry norms and instead creating “kinetic art that tells time” with his “Friends,” built a globally revered brand that thrives on innovation, passion, and a childlike sense of wonder. It was a profound lesson in how daring to be different and staying true to an authentic artistic voice can redefine an entire category.
The One Question MB&F Always Answers: ‘What if a Watch Was a Dream You Could Wear on Your Wrist?’
MB&F (Maximilian Büsser and Friends), through each audacious and imaginative “Horological Machine” or “Legacy Machine,” consistently answers this question by creating timepieces that are, in essence, dreams you can wear on your wrist. Drawing inspiration from sci-fi, childhood fantasies, and the natural world, then collaborating with master artisans (“Friends”), Max Büsser transforms fantastical concepts into tangible, kinetic sculptures that tell time in unconventional ways. Each MB&F creation is a testament to the power of unbridled imagination in high horology.