Now You See It…
Mechanical movements are displayed in all their glory as watchmakers opt for transparent sapphire cases
hat’s beautiful on the outside should be beautiful on the inside. This philosophy is best orchestrated with timepieces that come within sapphire cases, putting the movement on full display. Traditionally, part of the movement could only be viewed from the back (if it had an open caseback), but recent developments in the manufacturing and cutting of sapphire glass (notoriously hard to machine) have enabled these maverick watchmakers to fully showcase their hearts and souls. MB&F’S HM6 Space Pirate might be one of the brand’s most polarising pieces, but the movement within is without a doubt one of its most spectacular. It consists of five domes: two for time-telling purposes, two turbines connected to the winding system, and one in the centre housing the flying tourbillon. As if its biomorphic shape wasn’t a statement enough, MB&F has now encased the HM6 within a sapphire crystal, allowing a full view of the engine within. Hublot’s innovative MP-05 Laferrari movement is placed under the spotlight as it comes in a fully transparent case, courtesy of a sapphire construction. The movement looks like it is suspended midair, further elevating the mystical and mythical status of this engineinspired marvel. The case is made of seven blocks of sapphire, and requires 600 hours of machining. Another racing-inspired machine is the Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti Super Sport, which is based on the original 2005 timepiece that resembles the engine of the supercar. The result is even more outstanding thanks to the fact that 19 of the components in the movement are entirely made of red gold—a truly opulent masterpiece.