Basel 2014: MB&F Legacy Machine N°1 Xia Hang by JESSICA

It’s always fun to visit MB&F to see what’s cooking in the concept lab. This year, we got to play with the Legacy Machine N°1 Xia Hang (LM1 Xia Hang). Maximilian Büsser & Friends have taken the iconic dial of the original Legacy Machine N°1, to create the coolest. power reserve. ever.

The LM1 Xia Hang is a collaboration between MB&F and Chinese artist Xia Hang in Beijing. The timepiece retains all of the 19th century pocket watch-inspired features of the original LM1, including the suspended oscillating balance wheel and dual-time indications that can be set completely independently. The twist is that the power reserve is indicated by a polished alien creature known as “Mr. Up” and “Mr. Down” because his head rises and drops to indicate the power stored in the movement.

After working for 45-hours, Mr. Down’s polished aluminium head drops to indicate that his energy levels are low. Winding him up, Mr. Up sits up straight and is brought back to life.

The LM1 Xia Hang is a limited edition of 12 pieces in red gold and 12 pieces in white gold. Each Legacy Machine is accompanied by a pair of large-scale sculptures of Mr. Up and Mr. Down crafted in stainless steel and signed by Xia Hang.

LM1 Xia Hang in red gold (LE of 12)

Legacy Machine N°1

LM1 Xia Hang in white gold & blue dial (LE of 12)

Each LM1 Xia Hang is accompanied by signed sculptures of Mr. Up and Mr. Down

See also Independent Watch Forum Basel 2014: Introducing the MB&F Legacy Machine N°1 Xia Hang
Photos: Paul Boutros