MB&F's watch tribute to 1950s aerodynamic designs now comes with a sapphire crystal shell

meet the HM9-SV watch by MB&F 

Timepiece brand MB&F introduces the Horological Machine N°9 ‘Sapphire Vision’ (HM9-SV), an intricate watch that combines the classic style of the 1940s and 50s with advanced technology. This version is an evolution of the HM9 Flow, which was released in 2018, paying tribute to the designs of vintage automotive and aeronautics from the mid-20th century. Now, the HM9 comes with a transparent shell made of sapphire crystal and precious metal. Its outer hull is curved, bubbled, and precisely assembled in three parts. It’s sealed using patented three-dimensional gaskets and a high-tech bonding process, ensuring durability and water resistance.

There are now six editions of HM9 Sapphire Vision, with different colors and materials. Two new editions, limited to only five pieces each, were introduced in 2023: one with a white gold frame and blue CVD movement and another with a yellow gold frame and a green engine.

all images ©Eric Rossier

From Air to Sea: Evolution of HM9

Inside the exterior is the watch’s impressive movement. HM9-SV has two balances that move independently, but their rhythms come together to show the time accurately. The precise and efficient conical gears redirect the movement’s energy flow at a 90° angle, displaying it on the sapphire crystal dial. Before this version, the HM9 Flow had editions for air and land. However, the new model takes us now to the deep sea. According to the team at MB&F (see more here), HM9-SV is like a mini submarine inspired by the lost city of Atlantis. The watch combines old and new technologies to create something special, just like the unexplored parts of the ocean.

The design of HM9-SV kept the fluid dynamic lines of its predecessors but with adjustments for underwater use. These changes were needed because sapphire crystal is hard but can break under pressure. The smoother lines of HM9-SV made it more resilient and fitting for the ocean theme.

its sleek design minimizes weak points while keeping its underwater look

the design of HM9-SV is influenced by its previous models

the new piece follows fluid dynamics principles but with more flexibility in angles and curves

the HM9 engine combines a unique arrangement of gears, wheels, and bridges within a crystal-clear case

to enhance shock resistance, HM9-SV has helicoidal springs between the movement and case

thanks to its transparent case, users can see all engine parts in action

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the other new 2023 version comes with a white gold frame and a blue engine

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

project info:

name: Sapphire Version

brand: MB&F | @mbandf

photography: ©Eric Rossier