Introduced in 2014, the Legacy Machine LM101 possesses an in-house created caliber, designed by Kari Voutilainen. The piece represents a key inflection point in the brand’s evolution, while drawing upon MB&F's strong relationships with many of haute-horology’s finest independent movement makers. This, when coupled with careful choosing of its suppliers, has led to the development of visionary contemporary watches, celebrated equally for their exceptional design and mechanical brilliance.
The goal of the Legacy Machine LM101 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's design. The nod to the past was largely achieved through the classical, round shape of the case, sized at 40mm, and movement finishing. The engravings, Geneva waves, internal bevelled and polished angles, and countersunk screws all highlight the superlative hand-finishing in the style of traditional, 19th-century watchmaking.
That being said, MB&F’s progressive, avant-garde style is apparent, most notably through the unique central balance-wheel that has been placed in the front of the watch, floating above the dial. The LM101, much like its predecessor, the LM1, displays a large, 14 mm “flying” balance wheel with four traditional regulating screws, separating it from the manual-winding, single mainspring barrel movement beneath. The unique architecture of the Legacy Machine LM101 is emphasised through the high-domed sapphire crystal, coated with an anti-reflective material for a unique presence on the wrist.
Two pristine, white sub-dials are placed underneath: at the top right, the hours and minutes are displayed by blued-gold hands, while the 45-hour power reserve indicator is displayed in a smaller, but similar subsidiary below. The dial is decorated with a sun-ray pattern, and engraved with the words "Legacy Machine". This particular example was recently serviced by MB&F. Still highly beloved by collectors today and with an update to the series released in 2021, it's clear that the LM101 is a true "legacy" piece that will continue to be enjoyed for years to come.
This LM101 is a Certified Pre-Owned piece, having recently undergone a complete service by MB&F. Its offering coincides with A Collected Man becoming a pre-owned approved partner of the brand, a relationship which stems from our shared values and the deep appreciation we have for the work of Maximillian Büsser and his friends.