MB&F LM2 TI, Titanium

Founded by Maximilian Büsser nearly twenty years ago, in 2005, MB&F have become known for their innovative, conceptual watches made in small numbers and which seek to push the boundaries of how we see time. Their approach to watchmaking focuses on collaboration and bringing handcrafted methods to their futuristic ideas. The latter idea is an integral part of MB&F's Legacy Machine series, of which this LM2 TI belongs to. 

The Legacy Machine 2 was first introduced in 2013, as a follow up to the LM1 released in 2011. This particular LM2 TI was part of a limited series of 18 released in 2017, introducing a titanium case as well as a vibrant green colourway to the dial. The goal of the Legacy Machine series was to create a tribute to fine and antique watchmaking of the past, and combine it with the forward-facing, creative finesse of MB&F. A nod to the past is largely achieved through the classical, round shape of the case, sized at 44mm, and the finishing of the movement. The engravings, Geneva waves, internal beveled and polished angles and countersunk blued screws all highlight the superlative hand-finishing of traditional, 19th-century watchmaking. 

That being said, MB&F’s progressive, avant-garde style is apparent, most notably through the unique double “flying” balances unique to the LM2, floating above the movement and dial. These bespoke wheels measure 11mm, with four traditional regulating screws, separating themselves from the manual-winding, single mainspring barrel movement beneath. The double balance wheels are a tribute to the rarely seen historical "dual regulator" complication, and are connected by a large, planetary differential that manages the distribution of power to the regulators and feeds the rate of the regulators back to the gear train, allowing for more exact timekeeping. 

The unique architecture of the Legacy Machine LM2 is emphasised through the high-domed sapphire crystal that has been coated with an anti-reflective material, making the watch 19mm in thickness. However, when viewed on the wrist, the watch looks significantly thinner thanks to the anti-reflective material, closer to the actual thickness of the case without the glass. A pristine white, stretched-lacquer, sub-dial is found at 12 o’clock, displaying hours and minutes using blued hands, whilst the dial is decorated with a sun-ray pattern, and engraved with the words “Legacy Machine”. 
 
The movement was developed in collaboration with Jean-François Mojon at Chronode, a specialist in creating high-end mechanical movements. The LM2 TI also benefitted from Kari Voutilainen's expertise, both in ensuring that the aesthetic style was in keeping with the quality of watches that could have been produced in the 19th century, as well as for the superb finishing found throughout. Both Mojon and Voutilainen's names are engraved on the movement, making a trio with MB&F's own engraved name. The movement is beautifully symmetrical, featuring Geneva stripes, clean anglage, sharp inward angles, and a myriad of other finishing techniques executed to the highest standards.

A Collected Man is a Pre-Owned Approved partner of MB&F, a relationship which stems from the deep appreciation we have for the work of Maximillian Büsser and his friends. We are pleased to note that MB&F has graciously offered a complimentary service to the buyer within the first six months after the sale.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this MB&F LM2 TI will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This MB&F LM2 is in excellent overall condition. The case shows virtually no signs imperfections, though has two small hairline scratches on the top right lug and bezel at two surface scratches on the reverse side of the top left lug. The dial, hands and movement are free of any signs of imperfection.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity. MB&F has additionally offered a complimentary service to the future owner which can be exercised within the first six months of purchase, extending the warranty by a further two years from the date of completion.