Lower Cost Alternatives to MB&F Legacy Machines

[Stargazer735]

I love MB&F's stuff. I love the look of the large, exposed/flying balance wheel. I think it's a marvel to look at.

The LM Perpetual Calendar may just be my grail watch, but even the LM101 is over budget for me.

Just wanted to see if anyone knows some brands out there at the lower end of the spectrum.

Thanks!

(Pic of the LM Perpetual Calendar just because.)

Sent from my SM-G928V using Tapatalk

[PJ S]

Bovet, to a degree, and Arnold & Son, both spring to mind. Perhaps the Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges too.
That said, what’s your budget?

[Stargazer735]

Originally Posted by PJ S

Bovet, to a degree, and Arnold & Son, both spring to mind. Perhaps the Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges too.
That said, what’s your budget?

About $5K-$10K

Sent from my SM-G928V using Tapatalk

[Stargazer735]

It looks like Arnold & Son might fit the bill, based on what I'm seeing on Chrono24.

Pretty interesting stuff. I'm digging the DBG! Kinda like the LM1.

Sent from my SM-G928V using Tapatalk

[PJ S]

Originally Posted by Stargazer735

About $5K-$10K

Ah… yeah, even pre-owned that’s going to limit the options.
Within budget, your nearest option is the Nebula, but the DSTB is closer visually.
At 46mm, and well over budget, I’d say the TB88 is out of contention, even though it should wear slightly smaller.

[Yk101]

You may ant to consider Jaquet Droz as a possible contender.

[PJ S]

^
Presumably you’re referring to this year’s Grand Seconde Skelet-one, revealed at Baselworld?
Unfortunately, at $24K list, it’s going to be a while before the OP sees one close to, but still over, his upper budget – and that ceramic wouldn’t rule it out, irrespective of price.

[Stargazer735]

Originally Posted by PJ S

^
Presumably you’re referring to this year’s Grand Seconde Skelet-one, revealed at Baselworld?
Unfortunately, at $24K list, it’s going to be a while before the OP sees one close to, but still over, his upper budget – and that ceramic wouldn’t rule it out, irrespective of price.

I actually don't like it. :(

At that price, I would just go with a Breguet Tradition on grey market.

Still looking at alternatives. I like the A&S DBG, but it's not quite on the same level.

I'm weird with skeleton watches. I enjoy a solid, assymetrical dial. I enjoy seeing the movement (or at least the flywheel) while still maintaining legibility.

Sent from my SM-G928V using Tapatalk

[Stargazer735]

I also don't like seeing entirely through the case.

Something weird about seeing my own skintone through the watch.

Sent from my SM-G928V using Tapatalk

[Stargazer735]

Am I being too picky?

I'm being too picky. :-p

Sent from my SM-G928V using Tapatalk

[Stargazer735]

I think you nailed it with the DSTB, PJ S!

Not sure how I feel about the True Beat complication though.

Still, a very nice watch!

Any other thoughts, folks?

Sent from my SM-G928V using Tapatalk

[PJ S]

Just remember all pocket watches were a true beat before the seconds hand got the extra teeth to make it microstepping — it’s not something that was just introduced when quartz came into being.
Best to go see it in the metal, more than once if need be, before deciding if the Tru Beat function is a novelty you’ll tire of or revel in each time you wear it.