Some people might say that there are better times to release a watch than right in the middle of a global respiratory disease pandemic. Some brands might choose to wait for a more optimistic market to make more of an impact and target consumers who are getting back into the mood for spending. That’s fair; everyone’s entitled to an opinion. If you ask me, however, the MB&F Horological Machine No 10 “Bulldog” couldn’t have come at a better time. Let me explain.
At this time, people all over the world are getting more time with their pets than they ever thought they would. Countless internet memes centre on cheerful dogs overjoyed at having their human family around them at home. Those of us without the comfort of a canine companion are jealously stalking the Instagram accounts of our pet-owning friends. There has never been such a need for an object that simultaneously feeds our awareness of time, delights us with inventive displays of the hours and minutes, and reminds us of the importance of emotional support and solidarity.
Because this is what HM10 “Bulldog” does.
Those of us who have known and loved MB&F for a long time will find much that is wonderfully familiar about HM10 “Bulldog”. The rotating hemispherical displays of hours and minutes recall the cult favourite HM3 “Frog” editions and the space-travelling HM6. The suspended balance, showcased by the central sapphire crystal dome, will draw the eyes of those loyal to the brand’s more traditional looking Legacy Machine collection.
Despite its genetic lines leading back to various MB&F creations, HM10 “Bulldog” is entirely its own creature. Its compact titanium body looks massive, but flexible lugs means that it integrates perfectly once you actually have it on the wrist, like a seemingly obstinate pet that ends up ingratiating itself firmly within your life (and heart).
The biggest surprise of HM10 “Bulldog” is hidden to everyone except its wearer. When the movement is fully wound with all 45-hours of power reserve, the jaws of HM10 “Bulldog” hang open, distended in a joyous (or intimidating) saw-toothed grin. As the mainspring winds down, the jaws slowly close — indicating that your faithful companion is almost ready for a nap and needs a boost of hand-wound energy.
The power reserve indication and the time-display hemispheres are testament to the mastery of energy management that MB&F have honed over the years. These normally power-hungry features have been refined and balanced in HM10 “Bulldog” to optimise its daily function. The MB&F HM10 “Bulldog” is a finely bred beast, and it shows.
Most recently, we’ve seen sparkling elegance (Legacy Machine FlyingT) and cinematic mechanical innovation (Legacy Machine Thunderdome) from MB&F. Horological Machine No 10 “Bulldog” is the most fun we’ve seen the brand having in a while. And I don’t know about you, but I’m really happy to see something fun right now.
The watches are available at the M.A.D Gallery.
