L’Epée 1839 and MB&F are two undoubted titans of the clockmaking industry. The former has been dedicated to craftsmanship for the last 185 years, while the latter burst onto the scene in 2005. Thanks to its eye-watering combination of moving elements and precision engineering, their latest collaboration looks set to stir up another storm among lovers of unique, exclusive timepieces.
The L’Épée 1839 x MB&F Albatross clock is instantly recognizable as the work of true masters. It combines 1520 components, including 16 pairs of propellers, each of which kicks into action every hour. With a striking hour function and chimes on the half-hour mark, it’s the brainchild of experienced designer Eric Mayer and reflects his years of experience in the industry.
Mayer drew inspiration for the L’Épée 1839 x MB&F Albatross clock from the airship featured in Jules Verne’s novel Robur the Conqueror, blending period-designed tickets and hot air balloons for the finished design. This fascination with flying objects of the late Victorian era is perfectly captured in the design, continuing the themes established throughout the Legacy Machines collection.
The L’Épée 1839 x MB&F Albatross clock’s mechanical system recalls the ambitious complications of watches such as Jacob & Co’s Astronomia. The winding operation via the propellers is a wonderfully tactile finishing touch. With a day’s operation on a single wind, the movements are finished with a mix of satin and polish for a vibrant luster.
A limited edition release with five versions on sale, the L’Épée 1839 x MB&F Albatross is available in blue, red, green, champagne, and black.
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