The MB&F Balthazar For L’Epée 1839 is an incredible, high-precision robot clock, that could easily take your breath away. Looking all cool and possibly a bit creepy, this amazing thing weighs in at over 8 kg and stands 40 centimetres tall (16 inches); it benefits from a 35-day power reserve and comprises 618 beautifully finished, micro-engineered components.
Balthazar’s clockwork displays “slow” jumping hours and trailing minutes via two discs on the robot’s chest, while the power reserve indicator is located right on his belly. His red eyes continually scan the surroundings, and they are actually 20-second retrograde displays.
Developing Balthazar’s unique movement required significant modifications to the impressive movement designed for the MB&F’s previous robot, Melchior, and another interesting fact is that Balthazar is around 30% taller than its predecessor, which is why an extra gear train was required to complete the project.
The MB&F Balthazar is full of surprises, like his ability to move his joints and the double-depth square-socket winding/time-setting key which is integrated into his shield. The robot’s movement features a regulator, with an Incabloc shock protection system, that’s usually seen in wristwatches.
Balthazar’s movement also features the same exquisite finishing, with Geneva waves, anglage, mirror polishes, sandblasting, circular and vertical satin finishes that only haute horlogerie wristwatches benefit from.
Limited to just 50 units each, available either in black, silver, blue or green, Balthazar is an innovative and futuristic companion – not to mention unique. We’re not sure about price-tags right now, but we’re thinking this cute little thing is definitely worth the attention.
