# MB&F Horological Machine N°10 “Bulldog” – A Playful Beast on the Wrist The MB&F HM10 “Bulldog” is the kind of watch that makes you pause, smile, and then stare a little longer, trying to decode its eccentric language. Introduced in 2020, this 45 mm titanium (or 18 ct red‑gold) marvel takes the brand’s Horological Machine philosophy to a literal canine incarnation: two domed “eyes” tell the time, a hinged jaw signals the power reserve, and a floating balance wheel hovers like a mischievous pup inside the case. It is a piece that feels simultaneously avant‑garde and oddly comforting, a conversation starter that also manages to sit lightly on the wrist. Below we break down how the Bulldog fits into MB&F’s lineage, what its design and mechanics actually deliver, and whether the hefty price tag is justified for collectors and connoisseurs alike. ## Heritage — the model's place in the brand's line and its launch context MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends) has built its reputation on re‑imagining the watch as a kinetic sculpture, a philosophy embodied in the “Horological Machines” series. Each machine is numbered, and the HM10 marks the tenth entry in this lineage. Launched in 2020, the HM10 “Bulldog” arrived at a time when the brand was expanding its roster of bold, non‑traditional pieces, following earlier successes such as the HM4 “Thunderbird” and HM7 “Aquapod”. The Bulldog sits in the brand’s Tier 1 segment, indicating that it is a flagship model both in terms of technical ambition and price positioning. Its reference number, 100.TL.BL, places it among the titanium‑based offerings (the “TL” suffix) while the “BL” denotes the bulldog theme. The watch’s introduction was accompanied by a series of striking visual campaigns that highlighted its animal‑inspired anatomy—most notably the hinged jaw that opens and closes to reveal the remaining power reserve. Within MB&F’s broader narrative, the HM10 serves as a bridge between pure artistic expression and functional horology. While many Horological Machines prioritize visual spectacle over wearability, the Bulldog deliberately emphasizes comfort, as reflected in early owner feedback that praises its “high level of comfort and considerable lightness”. In that sense, it is both a continuation of MB&F’s experimental ethos and a refinement that aims to make the machines more approachable for daily wear. ## Design & Case — case dimensions, materials, dial At first glance the HM10 “Bulldog” looks like a miniature sculpture rather than a conventional wristwatch. The case measures a generous 45 mm across, a size that firmly places it in the “large‑case” category, yet the use of titanium (or 18 ct red gold for the premium variant) keeps the overall weight surprisingly low. The choice of titanium is purposeful: it offers a matte, industrial aesthetic that contrasts with the playful, almost cartoonish forms of the watch’s “face”. The dial is split into two domed “eye” windows, each housing a miniature analog display. These eyes are set into a sculpted snout‑like housing that gives the impression of a bulldog peering out from the wearer’s wrist. Time is read by glancing at the positions of the hour and minute hands within each eye—an approach that is undeniably original but, as some reviewers note, can be “somewhat hard to read at a glance”. Perhaps the most distinctive functional element is the hinged jaw that sits beneath the eyes. This jaw acts as a power‑reserve indicator: when the movement is fully wound, the jaw opens into a smiling grin; as the reserve dwindles, the jaw gradually closes, eventually forming a shut mouth that signals the need for winding. The jaw’s motion is smooth and audible, adding a kinetic dimension that reinforces the watch’s animal metaphor. Inside the case, a floating balance wheel appears to hover in mid‑air, anchored only by the movement’s architecture. This visual trick amplifies the sense of levitation and reinforces the “bulldog‑as‑living‑creature” narrative. The case is water‑resistant to 50 m, sufficient for everyday splashes but not intended for serious swimming or diving. No official thickness figure has been disclosed, but the overall profile is relatively slim for a 45 mm case, thanks largely to the lightweight titanium construction. The watch’s branding appears on the dial in a stylised script that some owners find confusing. The orientation of the MB&F logo, placed near the “eyes”, can be misread depending on the angle of view, an issue that has been highlighted in negative feedback. Nonetheless, the overall design language is cohesive: every element—from the eyes to the jaw to the floating wheel—contributes to a unified, whimsical beast that is unmistakably MB&F. ## Movement & Performance — caliber, power reserve, accuracy At the heart of the Bulldog lies MB&F’s in‑house manual‑winding caliber HM10. This movement was developed specifically for the watch and reflects the brand’s commitment to engineering as an artistic medium. The HM10 delivers a 45‑hour power reserve, a respectable figure for a manually‑wound watch of this complexity. The movement drives the dual‑eye time displays, the jaw‑operated power‑reserve indicator, and the floating balance wheel. While the watch does not carry an official chronometer certification, the manual winding mechanism is robust and, according to owners, “highly reliable”. The absence of a disclosed beat rate or accuracy statistics in the source material means we cannot quantify its precision, but MB&F’s reputation for meticulous finishing suggests the HM10 meets the expectations of a high‑end mechanical watch. The manual winding experience itself is part of the watch’s narrative. Winding the crown not only stores energy but also subtly influences the jaw’s position, giving the wearer a tactile sense of the watch’s vitality. The floating balance wheel, visible through the case’s open architecture, provides an additional visual cue of the movement’s activity, reinforcing the idea that the watch is a living organism. Overall, the HM10 movement is a showcase of MB&F’s ability to blend engineering with storytelling. It may not boast the ultra‑high precision of a certified chronometer, but its unique power‑reserve display and kinetic features make it a performance piece that rewards attentive observation. ## On the Wrist — wearability, lug‑to‑lug, comfort notes Despite its 45 mm diameter and unconventional silhouette, the HM10 “Bulldog” is surprisingly comfortable. Owners consistently highlight the watch’s “high level of comfort and considerable lightness”, a testament to the titanium case and thoughtful ergonomics. The lugs are proportioned to keep the overall lug‑to‑lug spread within a wearable range, ensuring the watch sits securely without overwhelming the wrist. The bulldog’s “fit” is aided by the case’s rounded edges and the relatively low profile of the movement. The jaw mechanism, while visually striking, does not add bulk; it moves smoothly without impeding the wearer’s motion. The floating balance wheel, though a visual centerpiece, is housed securely, preventing any rattling or discomfort. However, the watch’s size and avant‑garde design do produce a distinct presence. One reviewer described the experience as “that’s like an alien occupies your wrist…”, indicating that the watch commands attention and may feel alienating in more conservative settings. The orientation of the branding on the dial can also cause momentary confusion, especially when first putting the watch on. In terms of practical wear, the 50 m water resistance means the watch can survive rain or brief immersion, but it is not suited for prolonged swimming or diving. The manual‑winding nature requires daily winding for optimal performance, a habit that may appeal to traditionalists but could be a drawback for those accustomed to automatic watches. Overall, the Bulldog balances its bold aesthetics with a surprisingly ergonomic design, making it a watch that can be worn for extended periods without fatigue—provided the wearer embraces its eccentric personality. ## When to Wear — occasion, setting and dress‑code fit The HM10 “Bulldog” is a statement piece, and its appropriate moments are those where you intend to be noticed. Its avant‑garde silhouette and animal‑themed complications make it ideal for high‑end social gatherings, art openings, design‑focused events, or any setting where conversation starters are welcome. In a formal business environment, the watch may be too conspicuous; the oversized case and whimsical jaw could clash with strict dress codes that favor classic elegance. Conversely, in creative industries—fashion, architecture, or contemporary art—the Bulldog can serve as an emblem of innovation and personal flair. For casual luxury occasions—cocktail parties, upscale brunches, or private yacht outings—the watch shines. Its titanium version, with a more subdued metal tone, can pair nicely with a tailored blazer, while the red‑gold variant adds a touch of opulence that complements evening wear. Because the watch requires daily manual winding, it is best suited for owners who can incorporate that ritual into their routine, turning the act of winding into a moment of connection with the piece. The jaw’s visual power‑reserve indication also adds a playful element to social interactions, inviting curious onlookers to ask about the opening and closing mouth. In short, the HM10 “Bulldog” belongs on the wrist when you want to make a bold, artistic statement and are comfortable with a watch that commands attention rather than fades into the background. ## Value & Verdict — price‑positioning + final take Pricing for the HM10 “Bulldog” reflects its status as a Tier 1 Horological Machine. The titanium version retails at roughly USD 105,000 (CHF 98,000), while the 18 ct red‑gold version commands around USD 120,000 (CHF 112,000). In the ultra‑luxury segment, these figures place the Bulldog among the most expensive independent‑brand watches, a price bracket typically occupied by limited‑edition pieces from established Swiss maisons. From a value perspective, the watch offers a unique combination of artistic design, kinetic complications, and in‑house engineering that is difficult to find elsewhere. Its manual‑winding caliber, 45‑hour reserve, and 50 m water resistance are standard for high‑end pieces, but the jaw‑driven power‑reserve display and floating balance wheel provide a level of originality that justifies a premium for collectors seeking something beyond conventional complications. Critically, the watch is not without drawbacks. The time‑reading experience can be challenging, especially for those accustomed to traditional hour‑minute hands. The branding’s orientation may cause momentary confusion, and the sheer visual impact can feel “alien” in understated settings. Additionally, the manual winding requirement adds a maintenance consideration that some modern wearers might find inconvenient. Balancing these factors, the HM10 “Bulldog” emerges as a polarising yet compelling masterpiece. For enthusiasts who value narrative, sculptural design, and the joy of interacting with a watch that behaves like a living creature, the Bulldog offers an unrivaled experience. For those who prioritize legibility, understated elegance, or automatic convenience, the watch may feel more like a conversation piece than a daily companion. **Verdict:** The MB&F HM10 “Bulldog” is a daring, technically proficient work of horological art that lives up to its whimsical name. Its price is steep, but the combination of in‑house movement, kinetic power‑reserve jaw, and striking design give it a unique place in the market. If you are prepared to embrace its eccentricity and enjoy the ritual of manual winding, the Bulldog is a worthy addition to a serious collector’s roster—an avant‑garde beast that will both delight and provoke, exactly as a great piece of art should.