The MB&F HM12 “The Guardian” Is Every Mecha Nerd’s Dream Watch

Summary

• MB&F unveils HM12 The Guardian, a sci-fi-inspired horological concept combining watch and robot
• Features include a flying tourbillon, mechanical face shield and detachable robot body with integrated tools
• Priced at $384,000 USD each, the HM12 is limited to 36 pieces across three colorways

MB&F‘s HM12 “The Guardian” is the independent brand’s newest horological offering that will satisfy both the watch and mecha-geek in you. This bold new creation is not just a watch, but a mechanical duo comprising a highly complex wristwatch and a towering 38-centimeter-tall robot companion.

Conceived entirely by founder Max Büsser and designer Maximilian Maertens, the project draws heavy inspiration and visual cues from 1970s and 1980s science fiction, as well as childhood toys where machines were imagined as distinct personalities. Recombining narrative design with high-end watchmaking and mechanical playfulness, the HM12 is envisioned as the highly advanced “head” of the robot, giving the timepiece a physical presence that extends far beyond the wrist.

The actual HM12 timepiece comes equipped with a flying tourbillon, instantaneous jumping hours, trailing minutes and a novel mechanical face shield complication. Its sapphire‑domed case architecture allows light to strike the tourbillon from multiple angles, while the shield system lets the wearer control how much of the dial remains visible, adding both narrative and technical depth.

“The Guardian” robot body is a true spectacle itself. Co-developed with Swiss clockmaker L’Epée 1839, the 755-component mechanical extension stands 38cm tall and is built with a central mechanical thermometer that acts as its heart. Meanwhile, its articulated arms carry integrated tools: a loupe built into a shield on the right arm for inspecting the watch’s movement, and a detachable UV torch on the left arm to activate the Super-LumiNova details across the structure. The watch detaches from its Velcro strap via a quick-release system and clips directly onto the robot’s head, with the strap conveniently stored in a hidden drawer located within the robot’s base.  

Released in three limited editions of 12 pieces each – in blue, purple and green – the HM12 The Guardian is priced $384,000 USD, available for inquiry exclusively through MB&F.