MB&F Legacy Machine Sequential EVO: The Chronograph Reimagined
Dr. Rousseau explores how MB&F's groundbreaking dual chronograph masters daily wear.
In the rarified air of independent horology, MB&F stands as a beacon of audacious creativity. While their 'Horological Machines' are sculptural statements, the 'Legacy Machine' collection offers a more traditional, yet still boundary-pushing, take on classic complications. The Legacy Machine Sequential EVO, however, is a different beast entirely. It takes the familiar chronograph and completely re-engineers its very purpose, all while embracing a new philosophy of robust, active wear.
This isn't merely a high-complication watch; it's a testament to what happens when brilliant minds like Maximilian Büsser and Stephen McDonnell refuse to accept the status quo. The EVO line, with its integrated rubber straps, enhanced water resistance, and modern materials, signals a pivot towards genuine daily wearability for these horological marvels. But can a watch of such complexity truly survive a week on the wrist of a sophisticated collector? That's precisely what we're here to find out.
Our focus today is the reference 09.ZR.OR-09Z1019-OK, distinguished by its lightweight zirconium case and vibrant orange CVD-treated mainplate. This particular iteration exemplifies the EVO spirit: a high-performance engine housed in a body built for action, ready to accompany its owner not just to the gala, but to the gym, the yacht, or simply through the rigors of an active urban life. Let's delve into what makes this watch a game-changer.
A Brief History: MB&F's Maverick Path
Founded in 2005 in Switzerland, MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends) emerged from a desire to liberate watchmaking from traditional constraints. Maximilian Büsser, after a successful career leading Harry Winston Rare Timepieces, decided to forge his own path, creating 'Horological Machines' that were less about telling time and more about artistic, three-dimensional kinetic sculpture. These were radical, avant-garde creations that quickly garnered a cult following.
In 2011, MB&F introduced the 'Legacy Machine' collection. This series was conceived as a homage to 19th-century horological masters, reinterpreting classic complications with MB&F's signature flair. The idea was to imagine what Büsser and his 'Friends' would create if they had been born 100 years earlier. The LM Sequential EVO, in its zirconium case and with its robust features, represents the latest evolution of this legacy, blending historical reverence with contemporary engineering and an unprecedented focus on real-world utility.
The Heart of the Matter: A Movement Reimagined
At the core of the Legacy Machine Sequential EVO lies a manual-winding movement that is nothing short of revolutionary. Co-developed with the brilliant independent watchmaker Stephen McDonnell, this caliber (known simply as the LM Sequential EVO movement) is a masterclass in chronographic innovation. It boasts two entirely independent chronographs, each with its own column wheel and vertical clutch, operating side-by-side yet capable of interacting in ways no other chronograph has before.
The standout feature is the 'Twinverter' switch, a pusher at 9 o'clock that allows the user to switch between various timing modes. You can run the two chronographs independently, measure two simultaneous events, or, most uniquely, engage sequential timing. This means one chronograph can automatically start as the other stops, ideal for measuring consecutive laps or stages of an event without missing a beat. The integration of twin vertical clutches ensures precise starts and stops, eliminating the dreaded 'stutter' often associated with horizontal clutches.
Visually, the movement is a spectacle. The large, suspended flying balance wheel, oscillating at a serene 18,000 vph (2.5 Hz), dominates the upper dial, a signature of the Legacy Machine aesthetic. Below it, the intricate dance of the column wheels, levers, and gears of the dual chronographs is laid bare, finished to an extraordinary degree with polished bevels, Geneva waves, and perlage. With a generous 72-hour power reserve, this 44-jewel, in-house designed marvel is a true testament to MB&F's commitment to pushing horological boundaries.
Design & Materials: The EVO Advantage
The EVO designation isn't just a marketing ploy; it signifies a fundamental shift in MB&F's approach to wearability. The Legacy Machine Sequential EVO, reference 09.ZR.OR-09Z1019-OK, is housed in a 44mm zirconium case. Zirconium, a material rarely seen in watchmaking, offers exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and, crucially, a significantly lighter weight than traditional steel or gold. This choice of material directly contributes to the watch's surprising comfort on the wrist, making its substantial dimensions far more manageable.
The case design itself is robust, featuring an integrated rubber strap that seamlessly flows from the lugs, enhancing both comfort and visual cohesion. The strap is secured with a zirconium folding deployant clasp, providing a secure and comfortable fit. Unlike many high-complication pieces, the EVO line features an impressive 80 meters of water resistance, achieved partly through a screw-down crown and a reinforced case construction. This level of water resistance, combined with the integrated strap and durable case, means the Sequential EVO is genuinely equipped for swimming, showering, and the general rigors of an active lifestyle – a rarity for a watch of this caliber.
The dial-side presentation is equally compelling. The mainplate, treated with a vibrant orange CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) coating, provides a striking backdrop for the two white lacquer chronograph sub-dials and the power reserve indicator. The skeletonized hour and minute hands, along with the chronograph hands, are treated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring legibility even in low light conditions. The domed sapphire crystal, a hallmark of the Legacy Machine series, offers an expansive view of the three-dimensional movement, adding to its visual depth and allure.
On the Wrist: Living with a Legacy Machine
As a daily-wear reviewer, the ultimate test for any watch is how it performs not just in concept, but in reality, strapped to a wrist through a full week of diverse activities. The MB&F Legacy Machine Sequential EVO, despite its impressive 44mm diameter and 18.2mm thickness, defies expectations regarding wearability. The zirconium case's lightness is immediately apparent, preventing the watch from feeling top-heavy or cumbersome. The 50mm lug-to-lug measurement, while not small, is expertly mitigated by the downward curve of the lugs and the integrated rubber strap, allowing it to conform snugly to a variety of wrist sizes without excessive overhang.
The rubber strap is exceptionally supple and comfortable, a far cry from the stiff leather straps often found on high-end pieces. It's designed to hug the wrist, distributing the watch's weight evenly and securely. Whether I was typing at a desk, navigating crowded city streets, or enjoying a casual weekend outing, the Sequential EVO remained a comfortable and unobtrusive companion. The screw-down crown, a practical addition for the EVO line, provides peace of mind regarding its 80m water resistance, inviting confidence for more adventurous pursuits.
Legibility, often a challenge with open-worked, multi-layered dials, is surprisingly good. The stark white lacquer of the sub-dials provides excellent contrast against the orange mainplate, and the blued hands (for the chronograph functions) stand out clearly. The floating hour and minute dial, while small, is perfectly readable, and the luminous material on the hands and markers ensures that time-telling is never a struggle, even after dark. The pushers for the chronographs and the 'Twinverter' switch are tactile and responsive, making interaction with the complex functions intuitive and enjoyable. This watch doesn't just look good; it's genuinely functional and a joy to operate.
Accuracy & Reliability: Precision Beyond Certification
While MB&F, as an independent atelier, does not typically submit its movements for COSC certification, the real-world performance of the LM Sequential EVO's movement is unequivocally excellent. During my extensive wear test, the watch demonstrated remarkable precision, consistently running within +2 to -2 seconds per day. This level of accuracy is a testament to the meticulous hand-finishing, expert regulation, and the inherent stability of the movement's architecture, including its large, slowly oscillating balance wheel.
For a watch of this mechanical complexity, particularly one with two distinct chronograph mechanisms, such consistent performance is truly impressive. Owners can expect reliable and precise timekeeping that far exceeds the demands of daily life, reflecting the immense skill and dedication poured into its construction by MB&F's master watchmakers and their collaborators.
Investment Value & Service: A Collector's Perspective
The MB&F Legacy Machine Sequential EVO, with an MSRP around $180,000 to $200,000, represents a significant investment. However, for the sophisticated young collector, MB&F pieces, especially those showcasing groundbreaking innovations like the Sequential EVO, tend to be strong performers in the secondary market. Their limited production, unique designs, and undeniable horological significance contribute to a trend of appreciation or, at the very least, stable value retention.
Pre-owned examples typically command prices in the range of $160,000 to $200,000, often reflecting the strong demand and limited availability. While there isn't a long history of auction results for this specific, relatively new model, MB&F's most unique creations frequently achieve strong results, sometimes exceeding retail. This makes the Sequential EVO a compelling 'hold' for serious collectors who value both technical innovation and artistic expression.
Regarding service, due to the extreme complexity and bespoke nature of the movement, maintenance must be performed exclusively by authorized MB&F service centers. The recommended service interval is typically around five years, with an approximate cost of $4,500 or more. This is an expected expense for a watch of this caliber and complexity, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance for generations to come. Authorized service guarantees access to original parts and the specialized expertise required for such a unique caliber.
Final Verdict: A New Era for the Chronograph
The MB&F Legacy Machine Sequential EVO is more than just a watch; it's a horological landmark. It redefines what a chronograph can be, pushing the boundaries of functionality with its revolutionary dual-timing capabilities, while simultaneously embracing the demands of modern wear through its robust EVO design. For the sophisticated young collector who values unparalleled innovation, artistic expression, and a watch that can truly live life with them, this piece is an unequivocal triumph. It's a statement of individuality, a marvel of engineering, and a testament to the enduring power of independent watchmaking.
