MB&F Debuts HM12 The Guardian: A Sci-Fi Inspired Horological Masterpiece with Robot Companion

MB&F unveils the HM12 The Guardian, a groundbreaking horological creation that seamlessly merges nostalgic childhood science fiction with sophisticated watchmaking. This innovative timepiece, designed as a robot's head, pushes the boundaries of traditional horology by integrating a complex watch with a mechanical companion. The HM12 showcases jumping hours, trailing minutes, a flying tourbillon, and a unique face shield mechanism, all housed within a Grade 5 titanium case with extensive sapphire construction. This release reaffirms MB&F's dedication to transforming imaginative concepts into highly intricate mechanical art, offering a whimsical yet serious approach to high-end watchmaking.

The Guardian robot, developed in collaboration with L'Epée 1839, functions as a presentation stand and an integral part of the overall concept. This 38cm tall mechanical companion, composed of 755 components, features a built-in thermometer, a magnifying loupe, and a detachable UV torch, enhancing the interactive experience. The watch, with its new in-house movement of 646 components and 84-hour power reserve, can be easily detached from its strap and mounted onto the robot, making the HM12 a complete and immersive mechanical universe. Available in limited editions of green, blue, and purple, this creation is a testament to MB&F's pioneering spirit in the world of independent watchmaking.

The HM12: A Watch Inspired by a Robot's Head

The Horological Machine 12, conceptualized as a robot's head and brain, marks a significant return to MB&F's signature expressive, futuristic designs. This timepiece is a successful fusion of childhood imagination and advanced horological engineering, showcasing the brand's ability to translate science fiction into serious haute horology. The watch's design features dual subdials acting as animated eyes for jumping hours and trailing minutes, complemented by an open mouth revealing a battle-axe shaped micro-rotor. The visible flying tourbillon, framed by sapphire crystal, serves as the mechanical brain, emphasizing the blend of classical watchmaking with a fantastical robotic aesthetic. This complex creation, with nearly 1,500 components across both watch and robot, is a testament to years of dedicated development.

Crafted from Grade 5 titanium, the HM12 measures 49.3mm long, 43.6mm wide, and 13.8mm thick, offering a surprisingly comfortable fit on the wrist due to its curved profile and articulated lugs. Its extensive sapphire construction allows light to illuminate the movement from multiple angles, highlighting the intricate mechanics, including the flying tourbillon visible from both above and laterally. A standout feature is the mechanically adjustable face shield, operated by a crown, which allows the wearer to animate the robot's face by covering or revealing the display elements. This playful yet meticulously engineered complication, composed of over 200 independent components, exemplifies the high level of craftsmanship and innovative spirit that defines MB&F.

The Guardian Robot: A Companion for the HM12

The HM12 achieves its full conceptual realization when paired with its mechanical companion, The Guardian robot, developed in collaboration with L'Epée 1839. This 38.2cm tall robot, weighing approximately 15 kg with its base, is more than just a display stand; it's an interactive element that completes the narrative of the HM12. The robot's design incorporates a mechanical thermometer in its chest, symbolizing its heart, and features practical tools like a magnifying loupe concealed in one arm for examining the watch's movement, and a detachable UV torch in the other for activating the Super-LumiNova elements on both the robot and the watch. The base of The Guardian even includes a hidden drawer for storing the watch's strap, emphasizing thoughtful integration and design.

The integration between the HM12 and The Guardian is facilitated by a dedicated quick-release system, allowing the watch to be easily detached from its Velcro strap and mounted directly onto the robot. This seamless connection enhances the overall experience, turning the watch into the robot's head and making the entire ensemble a cohesive mechanical sculpture. The Guardian, comprising 755 components, complements the HM12's complex in-house movement, which boasts 646 components and an 84-hour power reserve. This collaborative masterpiece is offered in three distinct color editions—green, blue, and purple—each limited to just 12 pieces, cementing MB&F's reputation for transforming imaginative concepts into highly collectible and serious works of horological art for an exclusive clientele.