MB&F LM101 Palladium

When it was introduced back in 2014, the MB&F LM101 was a more wearable vision of the Legacy Machine concept – size-wise only, as the design was still fully steampunk-inspired. It has since been presented in a vast choice of precious metals: first in white and pink gold, then in yellow and pink gold with the Frost limited editions and finally a limited edition in platinum… It is now time for a rare metal to house the mesmerizing movement ticking inside: meet the MB&F LM101 Palladium.

The Legacy Machine concept holds a special place in the creations of Max Busser and Friends. It marked a departure from the horological UFOs for which Busser’s creative think-tank was already known. As its name suggests, it embodies the classic side of MB&F’s universe… If we may say so. This overwise traditional watch stands out with one disruptive element as its beating heart is suspended, almost floating over the movement. The idea behind the Legacy Machine was to put its balance and escapement at centre stage.

With the LM101, the smaller-sized Legacy Machine (with a 40mm diameter), this captivating spectacle was orchestrated by the brand’s first in-house movement. Plus, its large 14mm balance wheel beats at 18,000 vibrations per hour, a perfect pace to enjoy its aerial motion. A limited-edition of 18 pieces, the latest iteration, the MB&F LM101 Palladium, is the brand’s first palladium watch (and one of the rare watches in the industry with a case in this material). This rare metal is part of the platinum group, alongside rhodium and ruthenium. It is naturally white and does not require plating. Its subtle tone contrasts beautifully with the sunray dial, whose colour varies between grey and shades of pale blue and green depending on the light.

Over the sunray-engraved plate, two lacquered dials show the hours and minutes and the power reserve over 45 hours. These are paired with contrasting blued hands. Turning the watch over, the exhibition caseback reveals the other side of the beautifully finished movement. The traditional state-of-the-art finishing specifications were defined with Kari Voutilainen – his name is engraved on one of the bridges. These include Geneva stripes, large polished chamfers and jewels set in highly-polished gold chatons.

The MB&F LM101 Palladium is worn on an alligator strap and is secured to the wrist by a palladium buckle. Price is set at CHF 55,000, USD 58,000 or EUR 51,000 (all prices excl. taxes). For more information, please visit www.mbandf.com.