The Swiss watchmaker has incorporated yet another technical feat of engineering that makes the already iconic Legacy Machines collection even more impressive.

Innovative watchmaker MB&F is already well known for reimagining the traditional balance by successfully suspending it above the dial. That is one of the most prominent technical elements of the brand’s Legacy Machine collection.

But this time MB&F has even outdone itself with the new Legacy Machine Split Escapement. It has now been raised to another level, both in the literal and metaphorical sense, above everything else.

So why the name “Split Escapement”?

Well, unlike the brand’s other already very impressive balances, the balance on this watch looks like it oscillates on its own, without any visible intake of energy. That is because the other parts of the escapement that provide the driving impulse – the anchor and escape wheel – are found on the opposite side of the movement, some 12mm away. Hence the name “split escapement”.

Because a longer balance arbour has the potential to detract from the amount of energy transmitted to the oscillator, this movement is driven by two barrels, which together provide up to 72 hours of autonomy.

Above that wonderful feat of watchmaking is a triple-dial design. The well-orchestrated face gives the time at 12 o’clock, the power reserve at 4 o’clock and the date at 8 o’clock. The latter can be quickly and easily adjusted thanks to a push-button on the side of the case.

Another interesting design feature is the frosted finish of the dial. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen the treatment from MB&F - some of you night know that it was first presented in the earlier Legacy Machines 101 “Frost” editions. Usually associated with antique pocket watches that had the same look thanks to acid baths, here modern methods involving manual brushing replicate the look.

The regal looking Legacy Machine Split Escapement will be launched in a series of 72 pieces in white gold, divided into four editions. Each edition, limited to 18 pieces, features frosting and a movement finish of a different shade.

Probably the most classic looking is the blue frosted finish, which is paired with a rhodium-plated movement. The ruthenium option, on the other hand, has a more modern feel about it, with focus channeled towards the white lacquer dials.

The warmest option is the one finished with red gold frosting, which I especially like because of the added contrast provided by the intense blued hands. And for the look that is most reminiscent of the antique timekeepers that inspired the styling of this Legacy Machine there is the yellow gold frosted option.