The science fiction-inspired HM3 by MB&F, first presented in late 2008, has spawned a whole variety of siblings over the past four years, bearing names ranging from the space age Starcruiser and Sidewinder to the unusual “Frog”. The latter incarnation was subsequently rotated 90 degrees by the moon-fascinated Stepan Sarpaneva to produce the MoonMachines, featuring the distinctive, oversized and slightly unnerving moon phase display that is typical of Sarpaneva timepieces.

HM3 MEGAWIND by MB&F

The latest HM3 model, dubbed the Megawind, draws attention to the inverted movement developed by Jean-Marc Wiederrecht on a Girard-Perregaux base calibre. A “mega rotor” in 22-carat gold and titanium dominates the scene on the dial, behind which the balance wheel can be seen oscillating. The idea for the rotor, which features the signature MB&F battleaxe design, as well as the name of this piece both came from Stepan Sarpaneva. In addition to its dominant size and distinctive shape, the rotor is also unusual in that it appears to be symmetrical, with no apparent off-centre mass. The new feature does not defy the laws of physics, however, since the underside of one arm of the gold blades is reduced to a razor-thin edge, thus displacing the centre of gravity.

The HM3 engine in the Megawind by MB&F

The HM3 Poison Dart Frog is yet another evolution of the HM3-engined watch and shows MB&F’s appreciation for creatures whose sizes belies a disproportionate power. On Monday this week, the brand featured a similarly powerful little creature on its blog. An inspiration for a future MB&F creation, perhaps?