MB&F HOROLOGICAL MACHINE 3

Founded in 2005 by Maximilian Büsser, MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends) is one of the most iconic and unconventional independent watchmaking ventures in contemporary times. Born from a desire to break free from the constraints of traditional commercial watchmaking, the MB&F project is based on a collective and experimental approach, engaging some of the finest independent artisans, engineers, and designers in the creation of "horological machines" that are, first and foremost, works of art in motion.

The Horological Machine No. 3, presented in 2009, represents a milestone in the brand's history: a timepiece that radically challenges the rules of form, timekeeping, and mechanical architecture. In its Starcruiser version, the HM3 draws inspiration from aerospace aesthetics and introduces a lateral reading of time through two rotating domes, creating a completely new visual language.

More than just a watch, the HM3 is a manifesto of MB&F's vision: celebrating watchmaking as a means of expression, where function merges with storytelling, and technique becomes art. Every component, from the sculptural form of the rotor to the three-dimensional construction of the case, reflects a constant dialogue between past and future, craftsmanship and innovation. With this model, MB&F not only confirms its role at the forefront of fine watchmaking, but also redefines what a timepiece can be in the 21st century.

The MB&F Horological Machine No. 3 “Starcruiser” in white gold is a powerful example of horological imagination, transcending tradition to become a wearable kinetic sculpture. Launched in 2009, HM3 marked a turning point for MB&F—and the Starcruiser configuration, with its domes positioned horizontally across the wrist, remains one of the most radical interpretations.

Crafted from 18-karat white gold with grade 5 titanium elements, the watch features a three-dimensional architecture that extends horizontally, housing two rotating domes that display the hours and minutes on a lateral axis. The design is inspired by aircraft instruments—readable without rotating the wrist—merging functionality with a sci-fi aesthetic.

At its heart, beneath a dramatically domed sapphire crystal, the famous battle-axe-shaped rotor, crafted from solid 22-karat gold and titanium, rotates above the inverted movement with hypnotic fluidity. Rather than conceal the mechanics, HM3 celebrates them, showcasing the movement and engineering artistry.

The basic movement was originally a Girard-Perregaux caliber, but was extensively reworked and inverted by Jean-Marc Wiederrecht and Agenhor to accommodate the rotor and the satellite domes on the upper part. The domes, made of ultra-light aluminum, rotate on ruby ​​guides to reduce friction, ensuring stability and precision despite the unusual configuration.

Despite its substantial dimensions (approximately 47 × 50 × 16 mm), the watch is surprisingly comfortable on the wrist, thanks to the ergonomically curved lugs and the use of titanium to balance the structure. It is paired with a black alligator strap with a matching white gold folding clasp.

Produced in limited quantities, the HM3 Starcruiser in white gold is one of the most coveted variants of the entire Horological Machine No. 3 family. It represents a milestone in contemporary independent watchmaking—a timepiece that challenges convention, embraces creativity, and yet remains rooted in impeccable mechanical seriousness.