Since its debut in 2014, the MB&F LM101 line has become a cornerstone of the boutique brand's offerings, presenting a traditional yet striking counterpoint to the more unconventional creations in the upper echelons of its lineup. In 2021, the brand revisited this relatively simple series, refining and cleaning up the concept for a more streamlined look and introducing the first stainless steel variant. The new MB&F LM101 models for 2021 offer a fresher, more focused style for the iconic suspended balance construction, with new materials, colors, and redesigned forms.
The proportions of the 40mm MB&F LM101 case have been altered for 2021 to maximize focus on the dial. The sloped polished bezel, characteristic of previous models, has been noticeably narrowed compared to earlier versions, which should result in a broader and more significant wrist presence. However, most of the overall case geometry and finishing should feel familiar to brand enthusiasts. The contrasting brushing of the central strap and the sharply downward lugs' sides is a signature element of the series, but the centerpiece of the case is naturally the massive domed sapphire crystal.
With an overall height of 16mm, this bubble-like form carries over to the new models, creating a sense of continuity and visual impact in images. MB&F presents this slightly reimagined case in 18k white gold, 18k red gold 5N+, and for the first time in the series - in stainless steel.
Technically, the MB&F LM101 uses a skeletonized dial design, as the mechanism's decorated plate takes up much of the surface beneath the glass, but the finished look radically differs from traditional skeletonized watches. As with the cases, MB&F enhances and simplifies the LM101 dial design for 2021, removing the engraved "Legacy Machine" font previously etched on the mechanism's plate and enlarging the subsidiary dials for easier reading and a more balanced appearance in images.
The signature suspended balance wheel of the LM101 has also been altered, retaining the floating and elegant polished balance bridge of previous models, but adding an innovative dual hairspring concept first implemented by H. Moser & Cie.
All three new models share the same subdial, covered with milky-white domed lacquer, thin printed Roman numerals for the hours, and an unusual blued gold leaf-shaped hand. Slightly enlarged diameters of the timing and power reserve subdials give these elements more breathing space in the initial images and help eliminate the borderline void feeling caused by the removal of the engraving on the mechanism's plate.
While the intricate engraving on the mechanism's plate of previous LM101 generations may be gone, MB&F matches each new case material with a unique arabesque finish on the mechanism's plate. The 18k white gold model is perhaps the most striking of all, with a rich saturated purple hue, but the royal blue of the 18k red gold model and the lighter Capri blue shade in the stainless steel version complement the qualities of each case material beautifully.
The manually wound LM101 movement in the MB&F LM101 series was the brand's first movement entirely developed by its own team, and like the rest of the watch, this power unit received a facelift in 2021. The most notable new elements are the movement bridges, now featuring a deep graphite-gray NAC finish done by brand partner Kari Voutilainen. The smooth, flowing bridge shapes and their Côtes de Genève finish remain unchanged, but the new dark tone allows the golden gear train elements, as well as the gold chatons and rubies, to visually stand out in the initial images. The technical specifications are similar to previous versions: a power reserve of 45 hours at a leisurely pace of 18,000 vibrations per hour. MB&F equips all three models with alligator or calf leather straps in black or dark brown.
Staying true to their stylistic roots, the trio of new MB&F LM101 models for 2021 offers a cleaner and more focused vision of modern watchmaking classics.
All three models in the MB&F LM101 2021 lineup are available now through authorized dealers. The MSRP for the new MB&F LM101 stainless steel model is $56,000, while the white and red gold models are priced at $68,000. For more detailed information, visit the brand's website.
