The Legacy Machine Flying T watch, equipped with the so-called “flying tourbillon”, in 2019 was the first watch that the Swiss brand MB&F created for women. They were distinguished by sophistication and an unusual dial, raised above the base at an angle. Now the brand presents new versions of the model, created in collaboration with jewelry designer Emmanuel Tarpin. These masterpieces are called Legacy Machine Flying T Ice and Blizzard.
Unlike most “flying tourbillons”, which are located under the dial and are visible through the apertures carved into it, the Flying T tourbillon is elevated above the dial plate and rotates in front of the wearer. Protected by domed glass, the column structure of the tourbillon ensures that the spectacle can be admired from any angle.
Another unusual feature of the Flying T is the small hour and minute counter, tilted at a 50° angle so that only the owner can check the time. Bevel gears are used to transfer torque from one plane to another in order to achieve this characteristic tilt. The 280-part automatic movement developed by MB&F for the HM6 and HM7 Aquapod series features a golden sun-shaped rotor and a 100-hour power reserve.
Winter, with frosty lace on the windows and blizzards, was the theme Tarpin chose for his versions of the Flying T. His idea of recreating a winter landscape meant removing any yellow or red gold elements from the case and using rare Paraiba turquoise tourmalines in the center of the tourbillon (approx. 0.03 ct) and on two crowns. Both Ice and Blizzard are limited editions of eight pieces.
The 18K white gold case measures 38.5mm and is 20mm high, including the domed crystal. The case is set with 120 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.402 ct), and on both crowns, electric blue Paraiba tourmalines are surrounded by brilliant-cut diamonds. The icy theme is matched by a white alligator leather strap with light blue lining and a white gold buckle set with diamonds.
