September 3, 2025
MB&F has launched the LM101 EVO, a sportier take on their classic Legacy Machine, with a price tag of 62,000 CHF. This isn’t just a watch; it’s a piece of kinetic art for the wrist. But with its new focus on durability and daily wear, does this ultra-high-end timepiece offer genuine value for the discerning collector, or is it an exotic solution in search of a problem?
The Verdict: A Pragmatic Breakdown
To assess the LM101 EVO’s value proposition, a clear-eyed look at its strengths and weaknesses is essential for any savvy shopper in this price bracket.
Pros:
- Enhanced Durability: With a screw-down crown, 80 meters of water resistance, and the FlexRing shock absorption system, this is an MB&F you don’t have to baby. It’s engineered for real-world wear.
- Exceptional Design & Build: The bezel-less titanium case, massive domed sapphire crystal, and the signature suspended flying balance wheel are masterfully executed. It is visually stunning from every angle.
- Upgraded Performance: The manufacture movement, with finishing by the legendary Kari Voutilainen, now boasts a robust 60-hour power reserve.
Cons:
- Stratospheric Price: At 62,000 CHF, it operates in a category where the concept of “value” is highly subjective and the competition is immense.
- Wearability Concerns: Despite its “daily driver” ambitions, the 16.5mm thickness is substantial. This watch will not be sliding discreetly under any shirt cuffs.
- Niche Styling: The shift from classic lacquer subdials to a sportier look, paired with an integrated rubber strap, may not appeal to purists who admired the original’s refined elegance.
Context in the High-End Market
The LM101 EVO carves a unique niche. It isn’t competing with mainstream luxury sports watches from established giants. Instead, it offers an alternative to other independent horology masterpieces that are often too fragile for regular use. It bridges the gap between an avant-garde art piece and a robust, wearable timepiece—a space few competitors occupy with such distinctive flair. It’s a statement of personal taste over brand ubiquity.
Final Recommendation: Who Is This For?
So, is the MB&F LM101 EVO worth the investment? This watch is not for the value-hunter seeking the most complications per dollar. It is squarely aimed at the established collector who appreciates groundbreaking design and desires something expressive, modern, and uniquely durable. If you want a conversation-starting timepiece that can handle more than a boardroom meeting and have the budget for functional art, the LM101 EVO presents a compelling and almost unparalleled proposition. For everyone else, it remains a fascinating piece of engineering to admire from afar.
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