Introducing the MB&F LM Sequential Flyback Platinum

MB&F launched the Legacy Machine Sequential Flyback which adds a flyback function to the functionalities of previous editions. Price CHF188,000

In 2022, MB&F launched the Legacy Machine Sequential EVO, the first ever chronograph wristwatch of the Swiss brand. Incorporating two column-wheel chronographs and an ingenious “Twinverter” binary switch, the EVO enabled multiple timing modes including split-second and lap timer modes – a combination never seen before in any chronograph.

The watch was the winner of the “Aiguille d’Or” at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) 2022, the highest distinction honouring the finest timepiece of the year.

MB&F is now presenting the Legacy Machine Sequential Flyback which extends the functionalities of the previous EVO editions by adding a flyback function on top of the previous timing modes.

The new model is presented in a platinum case with screwed lugs and white lacquered dials that contrast beautifully against a sky blue dial plate. The hours and minutes dial is positioned at 6 o’clock and tilted at an angle.

The original prototype movement of the EVO was actually designed with the possibility to add a flyback function at a later time. 

The internal jewelling of the vertical clutches is the key to the whole Sequential chronograph, and the new flyback system also requires jewelling, without which it would not work. 

In order to reduce friction to a minimum so that the flyback did not cause the return-to-zero to block, a special jewelled roller was incorporated into the flyback mechanism. 

The LM Sequential Flyback Platinum features the same layout as the LM Sequential EVO with two chronograph displays. One has its seconds display at 9 o’clock and minutes display at 11 o’clock. The other has its seconds display at 3 o’clock and minutes display at 1 o’clock. 

Each of these chronographs can be started, stopped, and reset completely independently of the other, using the start/stop and reset pushers on their respective sides of the case. In the new model, the reset pushers trigger the flyback function if the corresponding chronograph is running.

The fifth pusher, called the Twinverter, is located at the 9 o’clock position. This “magic button” elevates the functionality of the LM Sequential timepieces beyond any existing chronograph wristwatch. It controls both chronograph systems, operating as a binary switch that inverts the current start/stop status of each chronograph. This means that if both chronographs are stopped, pressing the Twinverter causes both of them to start simultaneously. If they are both running, the Twinverter makes them stop. And, if one is running and the other is stopped, the Twinverter stops the one that is running and starts the one that is stopped.

Thanks to this special switch, the LM Sequential Flyback can be used in various modes that are not possible with traditional chronographs:

• “Independent mode”: measure the duration of multiple events with separate starting points and end points, even when the events overlap in timing. At the gym, for example, one chronograph can be set to time your entire session whilst the second is used to record your time at each station, or the downtime in between. In this case, the new flyback function makes it possible to swiftly reset and restart the timing sequence with a single press on the reset button, combining the three steps – stop, reset to zero, and re-start – in one.
• “Simultaneous mode”: measure the individual durations of two events that start simultaneously but have different end points. Imagine a race involving two competitors. Interestingly,  the durations of the events can exceed 60 seconds, which is the limit for the vast majority of split-second chronographs on the market. In this mode, you can also use the new flyback function if you want to quickly restart timing.
• “Cumulative mode”: measure the individual cumulative durations of two discontinuous events. By starting one chronograph when you begin working on one task, and then using the Twinverter when you shift focus to the second task (switching again when you go back to the first), you can easily track the amount of time you cumulatively spent on each task. An example of this usage is the timing of a chess match.
• “Sequential mode (or lap mode)”: measure the individual sub-durations of a single continuous multi-phase event. Thanks to the minutes totalisers, this mode is ideal in sporting events with average lap times of over a minute (which includes the vast majority of lap-racing sports).
• “Flyback mode: originally developed in the 1930s for airplane pilot, to allow accurate timing of flight paths from waypoint to waypoint. The stop, reset, and restart operations can be performed simultaneously, at a single press on the reset pusher. Combining the new flyback function with the other timing modes of the Sequential calibre offers even more functionality. For example, a pilot can keep track of overall flight time on one chronograph, while using the other chronograph to accurately time each leg with the flyback function.

The 44 mm x 18.2 mm platinum case features a screw-down crown and guarantees water resistance up to a pressure of 3 ATM (approximately 30 metres / 90 feet). The FlexRing annular dampener fitted between case and movement provides shock protection along the vertical and lateral axes.

The case has no bezel, leaving as much space as possible to the dial, well protected by the sapphire-crystal dome characteristic of the LM collection. 

Treated with anti-reflective coating on both faces, this crystal underwent a complicated shift in geometry in order to accommodate the placement of the 3Hz (21,600 vibrations per hour) suspended balance in relation to the chronograph displays. Despite the final appearance of the dial crystal — forming a perfectly smooth arch — there are actually two subtle (and difficult to achieve) angles incorporated within the camber of the crystal in order to minimise the overall height of the LM Sequential Flyback. 

Through the transparent sapphire crystal caseback, it is possible to appreciate the beautiful finishes of the hand-wound movement, including internal bevel angles, polished bevels, Geneva waves, hand-made engravings and darkened bridges (NAC finish). On this side, we also find the 72-hour power reserve indicator. 

Matched to an alligator strap with white-gold folding buckle, the MB&F Legacy Machine Sequential Flyback in platinum is a limited edition of 33 pieces with a retail price of CHF 188,000 excluding sales taxes. mbandf.com