MB&F HM12 The Guardian

A comprehensive horological masterpiece that blends science fiction, fine watchmaking, and mechanical sculpture

A comprehensive horological masterpiece that blends science fiction, haute horlogerie, and mechanical sculpture

With the HM12 The Guardian, MB&F opens a new chapter in its history. More than just a watch, this exceptional creation combines a radically new Horological Machine with an imposing mechanical robot developed in collaboration with L’Épée 1839. Together, they form a comprehensive horological concept comprising nearly 1,500 components and perfectly embodying the creative spirit that has driven the manufacture for two decades.

Produced in a limited run of just 36 pieces in total—divided among three versions: Green, Blue, and Purple—the HM12 The Guardian celebrates MB&F’s entry into its third decade by returning to the very essence of the brand: transforming childhood dreams into extraordinary mechanical objects.

A watch inspired by science-fiction robots

Since its inception, MB&F has drawn inspiration from futuristic worlds, mechanical toys, and science-fiction narratives. The HM12 The Guardian takes this approach even further by envisioning a watch that literally forms the head of a robot.

The result is immediately striking. The time is read in the character’s eyes via a display featuring instant jumping hours and trailing minutes. At the top of the case, a spectacular flying tourbillon seems to animate the robot’s brain, while the double-sided micro-rotor evokes its mouth.

The three-dimensional architecture of the Grade 5 titanium case, largely opened up by sapphire crystals, offers a fascinating view of the mechanics from every angle.

A unique complication: the mechanical visor

The HM12 The Guardian introduces a complication entirely new to MB&F: a movable visor designed to protect the robot’s face.

Operated by an independent crown located on the left side of the case, this visor can be moved gradually at the owner’s discretion. Whether visible, partially concealed, or fully protected, the watch’s face instantly changes its expression.

Behind this playful feature lies a remarkable mechanical feat. More than 200 components are dedicated exclusively to this mechanism, which is independent of the main movement, and whose level of finish rivals that of the most prestigious horological complications.

A 646-component in-house movement

Developed entirely in-house, the HM12 caliber exemplifies MB&F’s technical mastery.

Comprising 646 components and featuring 86 jewels, it combines a flying tourbillon, satellite display, double-sided micro-rotor, and an 84-hour power reserve. Its symmetrical architecture perfectly follows the shape of the case while offering a radically different aesthetic between the futuristic front and the back inspired by traditional haute horlogerie.

The caseback reveals a spectacular guilloché rotor created in collaboration with independent watchmaker Kari Voutilainen, adding an extra layer of craftsmanship to this extraordinary creation.

The Guardian: much more than a display stand

The HM12 truly comes into its own when paired with The Guardian.

Designed by L’Épée 1839, this nearly 40-centimeter-tall robot is not merely a display stand but a true mechanical companion. The watch attaches directly to its head via a specially developed clip system.

The robot features a mechanical thermometer at the center of its torso, a magnifying glass housed in its shield allowing one to observe the movement in minute detail, and a UV lamp designed to reveal the effects of Super-LumiNova on the watch and on the robot itself.

With its 755 components and a weight of nearly 15 kilograms, The Guardian transforms the watchmaking experience into a true object of collection and contemplation.

An extremely limited edition

The MB&F HM12 The Guardian is available in three colors: Green, Blue, and Purple.

Each version is limited to just 12 pieces worldwide, for a total production of 36 pieces.

At the intersection of mechanical sculpture, contemporary haute horlogerie, and the world of science fiction, the HM12 The Guardian represents one of the most ambitious creations ever produced by MB&F. A piece intended for collectors seeking both emotion and innovation.