MB&F HM8 Mark 2: Inspired By Cars, Fit For The wrist

It’s not unusual for a watch to be inspired by a car, unless, of course, that watch comes from the MB&F Horological Lab, which has been turning inventiveness on its head since its founding in 2005. The new HM8 Mark 2 is no exception, this time taking imagination a step further with fascinating details—some familiar—and exciting materials, referencing the Porsche 918 Spyder in its shape and the Zagato Double Bubble in its crystal.

The case is crafted from titanium and CarbonMacrolon, a composite material with a polymer matrix injected with carbon nanotubes for added strength and rigidity. CarbonMacrolon may be colored, polished, bead-blasted, lacquered and even satin finished, but its attributes don’t end there. It also weighs about eight times less than steel, making the watch lighter in weight while remaining impressive in size.

Two Variations of the HM8 Mark 2

There are two variations of the HM8 Mark 2: one features white CarbonMacrolon, while the other boasts a British racing green body cover (green that wraps around the case) with a red gold rotor and balance wheel and turquoise minute markers. The latter variation is limited to just 33 pieces and comes on a white calfskin strap with a titanium tang buckle. The white version comes on a green calfskin strap.

The watch’s Grade 5 titanium “chassis” and CarbonMacrolon panels are notable feats of engineering, and the double-curved sapphire crystal holds its own, with only one supplier agreeing to take on the challenge of creating the fragile component, according to the brand. The crown is also new: it works by pushing it in and turning it three-quarters of a turn to release it for additional security. The case measures 47 x 41.5 x 19mm and offers water resistance to 30m.

The Engine of the HM8 Mark 2

The 247-component 30-jewel movement has a balance frequency of 28,800 vph and power reserve of 42 hours. It includes a jumping hours and trailing minutes module developed in house by MB&F, powered by a Girard-Perregaux base movement. The jumping hours and trailing minutes are displayed by dual reflective sapphire crystal prisms with an integrated magnifying lens.

MB&F’s relationship to cars dates to 2012, when the HM5 (horological machine #5) was introduced. It was followed by the HMX in 2015 and the HM8 in 2016. All of these models share the well-known speedometer-style time display. And now, years later, the HM8 Mark 2 is making its debut, pushing the envelope with new details and fresh perspectives. But cars remain at the fore, thanks to automobile fan and MB&F founder Maximilian Büsser, whose vision keeps things on track.