HM8 Mark 2 - A fusion of watchmaking and automotive design

Renowned for its innovative and grandiose watches, Swiss company MB&F not only excels in the realm of horology but also shares a profound affinity with the world of cars. This enduring connection can be traced back to 1985, when founder Maximilian Büsser's fascination with automobiles took root during his childhood.

However, it wasn't until 2012 that MB&F unveiled its inaugural automotive-inspired timepiece, the HM5. Since then, this fusion of watchmaking and automotive design has evolved into a signature element of MB&F's creations, exemplified by watches such as the HMX in 2015 and the HM8 in 2016.

Each iteration in this automotive-inspired series features a distinctive speedometer-style display on the side of the case, paying homage to the bold and futuristic designs of the 1970s. Continuing this tradition, the latest evolution of this collection is the HM8 Mark 2, which combines technological advancements with the series' iconic aesthetic.

Case

The case design of the HM8 Mark 2 depicts the prolific merging of automotive inspiration and watchmaking prowess. Drawing inspiration from the world of cars, specifically the Porsche 918 Spyder and Zagato double bubble, the Mark 2's design captures the essence of speed, performance, and aesthetics. Employing a similar approach to the HM5, the case construction utilizes a water-resistant chassis with body panels securely attached.

Measuring 47mm x 41.5mm, the Mark 2 showcases a clever combination of materials, with CarbonMacrolon and titanium being the materials of choice. This pairing ensures durability and strength while giving the case a distinctive visual appeal. Buyers can choose between a white CarbonMacrolon case with a matte finish on the top and polished sides or a British racing green variant.

Dial

The dials of the HM8 Mark 2 exhibit a unique blend of artistic flair and technical brilliance. Inspired by the iconic Amida Digitrend, a sapphire prism is employed to create the illusion of a vertical display for the jumping hours and sweeping minutes, resulting in a vintage-looking speedometer on the front of the case.

Sapphire discs coated with black metallization give the dials a digital/electronic appearance, again inspired by the Amida Digitrend. Super-LumiNova is added beneath the sapphire disc, providing a flat and luminous display.

Movement

Beneath the captivating automotive-inspired aesthetic of the Mark 2 lies a meticulously designed movement. Borrowed from the original HM8, the Mark 2 features a three-dimensional engine with a Girard-Perregaux caliber powering the jumping hour and minute indicators.

The movement is designed with a complex 22-carat gold battle-axe winding rotor with blades measuring just two-tenths of a millimeter in thickness. The white version of the watch comes with a green CVD rotor, while the racing green variant features a red gold rotor.

Like its predecessors, the MB&F HM8 Mark 2 demonstrates the company's commitment to merging the art of watchmaking with automotive-inspired design. From its captivating case design to its meticulously crafted dials and movements, every aspect of this timepiece reflects a harmonious blend of artistry and technical excellence, positioning this automotive-inspired series as a standout in the industry.