Maximilian Büsser’s Horological Machine No. 4 Inspired by Stealth Aircraft

Luxury watchmakers MB&F have unveiled the sleek new HM4 Final Edition, a timepiece inspired by the F-117 Nighthawk. This stealth plane was designed to be inconspicuous in action, but on the ground, it has the opposite effect, drawing attention with its flat, faceted panels and seamless dark surfaces. Similarly, the Horological Machine No. 4 can’t help but attract admiring looks with its square angular panels, dark surfaces and high-tech titanium structure.

Only eight pieces of the 2013 ‘Final Edition’ will be produced, marking the last of the Horological Machine 4 series first introduced in 2010, which was limited to only 100 movements over all models. The aviation-inspired case and engine of this new model are a realization of Maximilian Büsser’s childhood passion for assembling model plane kits. The 54mm wide x 52mm long x 24mm case is comprised of high-tech titanium for lightweight strength, with a sapphire centre section offering a view into the engine. Meanwhile, blackened PVD gives the case a shadowy look, but allows light through to play off the contrasting matte and polished surfaces. Thanks to a dial which is perpendicular to the wearer’s wrist, this timepiece is extremely legible, with hours and minutes displayed by bold, arrow-tipped Super-LumiNova filled hands, making it the perfect pilot’s watch. In a playful trompe l’oeil, what at first glance appears to be a micro-rotor in the form of MB&F’s iconic battle-axe is actually a bridge.

At its heart is an engine that is the culmination of three years of work; each of the 311 components were developed specifically for this calibre, as no off-the-shelf pieces could be used to the extreme nature of the HM4 Final Edition’s design. Horizontally configured dual mainspring barrels drive two vertical gear trains, transferring power to twin pods which indicate the hours/minutes and the 72 hour power reserve.

A hand-stitched calfskin strap with a custom-designed titanium and white gold folding buckle attached to articulated lugs completes the look.

Photos courtesy MB&F. 

Adrienne Faurote

Editor in Chief · Haute Time

As a former New Yorker, now a “Miamian,” Adrienne Faurote joined Haute Living in August of 2021. She currently serves as the Haute Media Group Editor-in-Chief, overseeing all editorial platforms within the Haute Media Group while also maintaining her role as Fashion, Jewelry & Watch Director. Prior to her position at Haute Living, Faurote was the Market Editor at Marie Claire Magazine US, amassing over ten years in the industry, becoming an authoritative voice in all things fashion, jewelry, and watches.