Blackbird Watch Manual Vol.13

In volume 13, we chose the theme of Friendships, exploring partnerships in watchmaking, arts and motoring that made a significant mark in their respective fields.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, MB&F, driven by the creative genius of Maximilian Büsser and the support and loyalty of his friends, realized some of the most incredible machines in watchmaking and beyond. We explore the journey thus far and get a glimpse into what they have in store for the immediate future.

There are many examples in watch industry where friendships and partnerships have continued over generations. For example, Audemars Piguet, founded by Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet as a workshop in 1868, continued with both families over several generations, whilst at Blancpain, Jean-Jacques Fiechter’s passion for diving led through consultation with the French combat diving corps to the creation of the Fifty Fathoms.

Many of these partnerships have worked because of their complementarity. When we look at how the legendary marque Rolls-Royce came to be, C.S. Rolls was an avid motoring enthusiast while Henry Royce was an engineering genius whose designs established a new benchmark for performance and luxury. The rest, as they say, is history, with their original vision being just as relevant today.