MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision: Timekeeping Innovation Encased in Crystal

First presented in 2018, Horological Machine N°9 – nicknamed HM9 ‘Flow’ – was inspired by the dynamic profiles of automotive and aviation design from the 1940s and 50s. The result was a case like no other that echoed the epoch’s flowing, aerodynamic lines.

Despite its striking external appearance, the HM9 movement inside was described as the most beautiful movement MB&F had created to date. What other logical step was there to take, if not to encase the engine in a transparent sapphire crystal shell?

In the world of horology, there are watches, and then there are timepieces that transcend the ordinary and become extraordinary works of art. The MB&F HM9 Sapphire Vision, or “HM9-SV,” falls firmly into the latter category, redefining what a wristwatch can be. First introduced in 2018 as the HM9 ‘Flow,’ this timepiece has evolved into a mesmerizing creation that combines cutting-edge engineering with a design aesthetic inspired by the golden age of automotive and aviation.

A Journey Through Time and Design

The story of the HM9-SV begins with its predecessor, the HM9 ‘Flow.’ This remarkable watch took inspiration from the dynamic profiles of automotive and aviation designs from the 1940s and 50s. Its case design was unlike anything seen before in the world of horology, evoking the flowing, aerodynamic lines of that era. But the true beauty of the HM9 lay beneath its striking exterior.

A Movement of Unprecedented Beauty

Inside the HM9 ‘Flow’ resided a movement that MB&F proudly hailed as the most beautiful they had ever created. This movement was a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking artistry. So, what was the logical next step? To encase this masterpiece in a transparent sapphire crystal shell, of course.

Introducing the HM9 Sapphire Vision

And thus, the Horological Machine N°9 ‘Sapphire Vision’ was born. This exceptional timepiece features an outer hull crafted from sapphire crystal and precious metal, curved and bubbled to perfection. The three-part construction is sealed with a proprietary combination of patented three-dimensional gaskets and a high-tech compound bonding process, ensuring both water resistance and visual transparency.

A Dual Heartbeat, a Single Pulse

At the heart of the HM9-SV are two fully independent cantilevered balances, working in perfect harmony. These balances channel their data into a differential mechanism that turns their individual heartbeats into one coherent time-pulse. It’s a testament to the precision and engineering prowess of MB&F.

A Journey to the Depths

The HM9-SV takes its wearer on an exploration to the depths of the ocean. Following the initial ‘Air’ and ‘Road’ editions that conquered the realms of land and sky, the HM9-SV dives into the last uncharted frontier on Earth—the ocean. It’s as if you’re holding an exploratory vessel from Atlantis on your wrist, powered by technology both familiar and yet strangely exotic.

The Visionary Behind It All: Maximilian Büsser

The driving force behind MB&F and the visionary behind the HM9-SV is Maximilian Büsser. He broke free from the constraints of corporate watchmaking in 2005 and embarked on a rebellion against the norms. MB&F, which stands for Maximilian Büsser & Friends, is an artistic concept laboratory that assembles teams of independent watchmaking professionals to create radical timepieces. Their goal is to transcend traditional watchmaking, crafting three-dimensional kinetic sculptures that challenge conventions and inspire awe.