The concept of the future has been whimsically reshaped since World War II. During the pre-war era, visions of the years ahead were mere extensions of the present, somewhat limited by the creativity of their time. People in 1900 imagined the year 2000 filled with Victorian-style flying machines and advanced communication devices that still felt anachronistic.

However, the end of WWII ushered in the atomic age—a time when the world grasped the staggering potential of atomic energy. Though the utopian promises of unlimited energy never fully materialized, they radically shifted the aesthetic of what the future could look like. Designers began to break free from the constraints of historical styles; the rigid lines of the past gave way to fluid forms and bold colors, birthing a plethora of exciting design movements.

Among these, space-age design shone brightly, characterized by its curvilinear shapes, lively hues, and clean, white surfaces. This radical aesthetic transformed everything from furniture and vehicles to iconic structures like the Space Needle and even Brussels' Atomium. Despite its limited penetration into everyday life, this design movement left a marked impression on our collective imagination of the future.

A quintessential example from this transformative era is the Herman Miller Ball Clock, conceived by Irving Harper in 1948. This piece encapsulates the spirit of the atomic age and influenced countless designs for decades until priorities shifted when the U.S. landed on the moon.

Fast forward to today, the fusion of space-age design with horology is no accident. Max Büsser of MB&F has consistently drawn from the stylistic elements of the 1960s and 70s. His latest creation, the HM11 Architect, epitomizes this vintage aesthetic—a watch that functions as a miniature spaceship for your wrist, packed with innovative features that might astonish even the most seasoned watch enthusiasts.

Introducing the HM11 Architect

So, how does a spaceship morph into a home, and ultimately into a watch? For Büsser, inspiration struck upon observing futuristic architecture and pondering, "What if that house was a watch?" The resulting design is a marvel, integrating classic MB&F elements while dividing the watch's functions into separate "rooms." At the heart resides a flying tourbillon, surrounded by unique displays for time, power reserve, and even temperature, encapsulated in a design reminiscent of an avant-garde dwelling.

In a delightful twist, the entire case is designed to rotate—a nod to classic sci-fi depictions of spaceships. Just ten rotations are all that's needed to wind the mainspring for its impressive 96-hour power reserve, while a grand sapphire dome grants an unimpeded view of the extraordinary inner mechanisms.

Architectural Influences

The HM11 draws heavily on the work of renowned architect Antti Lovag, who saw architecture as a way to enhance human experience, shunning straight lines for organic forms. His philosophy of "bubble" architecture complements the work of Matti Suuronen, the designer behind the iconic Futuro spaceship house.

The blend of these influences can be seen in the HM11’s aesthetic—each room is embraced by polished titanium arches, creating an inviting yet otherworldly appearance. Lovag’s and Suuronen's inspirations coalesce unexpectedly while remaining uniquely captivating.

Crafting the Impossible

However, the journey to create such an artistic masterpiece isn't without challenges. A watch that deviates so strongly from traditional forms necessitated complex mechanical solutions—especially concerning the time-setting crown, housed behind a sapphire crystal window. This crown is 10 mm in diameter and includes eight meticulously designed gaskets to protect the delicate movement from dust and moisture.

Functionally, the HM11 impresses with its thermometer, capable of reading temperatures ranging from -20 to 60 degrees Celsius, independently from the main movement, while staying true to the watch's distinctive aesthetic. A power reserve display, inspired directly by the Herman Miller Ball Clock, and a display for hours and minutes round out the watch's functional offerings.

The Wow Factor

The HM11 doesn’t just shine in terms of function; it is an artistic statement. The complex movement displays a flying tourbillon hovering atop a cross-shaped structure, a visual delight when viewed through its porthole windows. The design's ambition is tremendous, with a remarkable level of craftsmanship reflected in every angle, from the materials chosen to the unique assembly process.

Only fifty pieces of the HM11 will be made, with a price tag of CHF 214,000, making it a true collector's item.

In a world where timepieces have become ubiquitous, MB&F's HM11 Architect stands out as a symbol of creativity and passion—the sheer joy of asking the provocative “What if?” regarding timepieces. And as this horological marvel prepares to take off, it exemplifies the passion-driven innovation that defines Büsser and his exceptional brand.

So, are you ready to wear a piece of the future on your wrist? The HM11 Architect awaits its lucky owner—an avant-garde tribute to human ingenuity, begging to be explored.