Fast times: HM8, MB&F's new auto-inspired watch

When Maximilian Busser calls a timepiece "one of the coolest pieces I've ever created", you pay attention. The founder of independent watchmaker MB&F has been responsible for some of the most technically ambitious and idiosyncratic designs in the industry and this new release is the eighth in the company's "Horological Machines", a staple of the brand since the first edition in 2007, that challenge the perception of traditional timekeeping.

The progression from its predecessors is clear to see – fans will recognise the distinctive triangular silhouette of the HM5, which rather unusually displays the time on the side of the case, while the battle-axe-shaped winding rotor that takes pride of place on top was also seen on the HM3, the most popular model to date.

The HM8, however, brings a new retro-futuristic feel, led by its point of reference, the Canadian-American Challenge Cup – a relatively short-lived, no-holds-barred sports-car competition that would have celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. Its synergy with MB&F is a natural one ­– free from many of the restrictions of other races, the vehicles pushed the limits of motoring, just as the watchmaker's creations have never been beholden to market forces. Most of all, the inspiration epitomises the brand's motto: "A creative adult is a child who survived," following on from Busser's youthful ambitions of becoming a car designer.

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The automotive influence comes through in the two roll-cage bars that run either side of the case. A feat of engineering in themselves, each bar is milled from a solid block of titanium in order to achieve the desired sweeping curve. The innovation continues to the "engine" of the timepiece – a Sowind base movement modified to accommodate the jumping hours and sweeping minutes that are then projected vertically using a system of crystal prisms. The watch will be available in a choice of red or white gold.

If the HM8 was produced by any of the big names, it would turn heads, but for MB&F, it represents a very logical addition to its already extraordinary horological portfolio. "Independent watchmaking is the soul, the heart and the think tank of our industry. Even though we do not comprise more than 0.1 per cent of the Swiss industry, independent artisan watchmakers manage to generate more creativity and innovation than all the remaining major players put together," says Busser. "And we still work with the same passion and craftsmanship as our forefathers. No industrial shortcuts are allowed. This is art."

mbandf.com