News: MB&F Horological Machine 8 Can-Am
The concept behind the Horological Machine series stems from MB&F founder Maximilian Büsser's childhood, and draws inspiration from science fiction and steampunk in the form and functions of each piece. In line with this grand tradition, the latest in the collection, the HM8 Can-Am, is a fun and futuristic creation that really pushes the limits of watch design.
The idea behind this watch stems from Büsser’s desire to be a car designer as a child—having gone into a different area of design entirely, he channelled all of his automobile aspirations into the design of the HM8 Can-Am. Slimmer than previous models and boasting a streamlined and angular shape, the HM8 is inspired by high performance race cars. It takes its name from a now defunct car racing series, the Canadian-American Challenge Cup, which was characterised by a ‘no holds barred’ style of racing.
The watch is configured to be ‘driver friendly’—the time is displayed on the side of the watch that faces towards the wearer when the watch is on the wrist, so that it’s easy to read when gripping a steering wheel. The time is indicated by means of two overlapping discs, one for bi-directional jumping hours and the other for a trailing minute display. The numbers on the discs are coated in SuperLumiNova and are magnified by specially designed prisms to make the time as easy to read as possible.
The wedge shape, seen in previous incarnations of the Horological Machine, features two titanium ‘roll bars’ that create a sleek and sporty silhouette, and are inspired by the roll cage of sports cars. It’s definitely a watch you won’t soon forget you’re wearing, measuring in at a mighty 49mm by 51.5mm—but remarkably, it is made of just 60 components. The watch’s engine is a movement developed by MB&F on a Girard-Perregaux base calibre, beating at 28,800vph and offering a power reserve of 42 hours. With its sporty design and smart finishing, the HM8 Can-Am is certainly a supercharged addition to the family.
