Introducing MB&F Unveils a New HM8 Mark 2 Edition

In 2023, MB&F opened a bold new chapter in its automotive-inspired saga with the launch of the HM8 Mark 2. The debut edition, presented in pristine white, remains in production today. The collection expanded later that year with a limited edition in understated British racing green, followed in 2024 by a high-gloss blue version. Now, MB&F unveils the 2025 Limited Edition: the HM8 Mark 2 Purple. Once again limited to just 33 pieces, this new edition features striking purple body panels inspired by the opulent finishes of the world’s most exotic supercars.

The case is crafted from Grade 5 titanium combined with purple Carbon Macrolon and comprises 42 components. Its complex construction measures 47 x 41.5 mm, with a thickness of 19 mm.

The vivid purple hue is achieved using metallic pigments derived from minerals, similar to those used in automotive paint. These pigments are meticulously mixed into resin following a precise protocol—carefully controlled parameters such as mixing time, temperature, speed, and duration. The watch’s double-curved sapphire crystal alone presents a remarkable technical challenge: its production is 30 to 40 times more costly than a standard domed sapphire, with only one supplier willing to undertake its manufacture.

Developed exclusively for MB&F, CarbonMacrolon® is a high-performance composite made of a polymer matrix reinforced with carbon nanotubes, offering enhanced strength and rigidity. Compared to traditional carbon fiber, Carbon Macrolon is more solid and suitable for various finishing techniques, while being eight times lighter than steel.

Equally innovative is the integrated crown mechanism, which employs a “double de-clutch” system reminiscent of automotive gear systems. With a three-quarter turn and a press, the crown is released, saving space and improving overall security.

The lateral time display is designed for optimal legibility, thanks to dual reflective sapphire crystal prisms with integrated magnifying lenses. The numerals placed upside-down and arranged on two rotating discs, are reversed to a normal orientation when projected through the prisms. Jumping hours are shown in the left window, while a light blue pointer indicates the trailing minutes in the right.

MB&F’s implementation of the sapphire prism allows for a vertical display of the jumping hours and sweeping minutes, although the discs themselves lie flat atop the movement. The brand sought a digital-like visual effect, achieved by using sapphire discs coated with black metallization, leaving the numerals transparent. Super-LumiNova is applied beneath the discs to ensure a flat, uniform luminescence.

The horological engine, a three-dimensional movement combining an in-house jumping hour and trailing minutes module, is powered by a Girard-Perregaux base caliber. It features automatic winding, a 42-hour power reserve, and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), with a total of 247 components.

A standout feature is the signature battle axe rotor, crafted from ultra-thin 22-carat gold blades measuring just 0.2 mm thick. Due to their fragility, these blades cannot be machined and must instead be stamped, with engravings incorporated during the stamping process.

The HM8 Mark 2 Purple is completed by a sporty yet comfortable white rubber strap. It is available as a limited edition of just 33 pieces, priced at CHF 68,000 approximately AED 304,400.

For more information visit MB&F’s official website.