MB&F Horological Machine No6 RT

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Introduced in 2014 in an inaugural edition of 50 pieces in Grade 5 titanium, the Horological Machine No. 6, also known as HM6 ‘Space Pirate’, is now available in an 18K red gold version. The HM6 RT is crafted with tarnish-resistant “5N+” red gold which ensures that it will keep its youthful good looks as it ages gracefully. HM6 RT features a flying-tourbillon with retractable shield, spherical time displays, wear- minimising turbines and a 475-component automatic winding movement.

In each of the four corners of HM6’s biomorphic case is a 360° sphere, capped top and bottom by transparent sapphire crystal domes. Up forward, two semi-spherical indications rotate vertically (90° to the Engine), respectively displaying hours and minutes in large, highly legible numerals. Back aft, driven through multiplying gearing by the automatic winding rotor, twin spherical turbines spin horizontally, automatically regulating the winding system in case of excessive speed to reduce stress and wear.

The central dome houses a 60-second flying tourbillon, the precision regulator of HM6’s Engine. The flying tourbillon is functional – the fact that it looks sensational is a bonus. There is no room at the top of the domed crystal for an upper support bridge and a flying tourbillon requires no upper bridge. HM6 RT has a retractable, semi-spherical, titanium protective shield that blocks harmful rays (especially UV light) from prematurely oxidising the Engine’s lubrication oils. A crown at 9 o’clock opens and closes the cover in a blink of an eye.

While the transparent cupola on top of HM6 RT offers a tantalising glimpse into the sophisticated Engine below, the sapphire crystal display portal on the back reveals more of the 475 finely finished components making up the highly complex movement. Also visible through the display back is part of the winding mechanism and the pale blue high-grade platinum 950 winding battle-axe rotor. The blue of the rotor is neatly echoed in the hour and minute markers.

HM6 RT’s softly satin finished red gold case reinforces the organic nature of its biomorphic form. It’s warm 18K gold is highlighted by the contrasting polished titanium band running longitudely around the central circumference of the hull, reinforcing the structure, maximizing water resistance and supporting the lugs. The curvaceous case ensures that HM6 fits comfortably on all wrists. HM6 RT is a limited edition of 18 pieces in 18K 5N+ red gold and Ti-6Al-4V titanium.

Technical details
Engine
Three-dimensional horological engine developed exclusively for HM6 by MB&F with David Candaux Horlogerie Créative
Flying Tourbillon with retractable shield
Light blue platinum 950 battle-axe automatic winding rotor
Twin aluminium turbines driven by winding rotor
Power reserve: 72h
Balance frequency: 18,000bph/2.5Hz
Number of components: 475
Number of jewels: 68

Functions/indications
Hour and minutes on separate semi-spherical aluminium indications
Crown to open/close tourbillon shield

Case
Manufactured by Les Artisans Boitiers
5N+ red gold and Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) titanium
Dimensions: 49.5 mm x 52.3 mm x 20.4 mm
Number of components: 80
Water resistance: 30m / 90’ / 3atm

Sapphire crystals
10 sapphire crystals: 9 domed (4 for the hour and minute indications, 4 for the turbines, 1 for the tourbillon) and one flat (display back)

Strap & Buckle
Hand-stitched calfskin strap with 5N+red gold custom designed folding buckle.