Housed within a smooth 38mm pebble-inspired case, the SP One combines tactile comfort with a bezel-free profile and elegantly separated lugs. As the most compact and slender watch ever produced by MB&F, it still embodies the brand’s signature three-dimensional design language and pioneering mindset. Positioned between the daring Horological Machines and the more traditional Legacy Machines, it launches an entirely new family: the enigmatic Special Projects collection.

When the COVID pandemic struck, MB&F, like many companies, feared for its future. During that uncertain period, the team turned its attention to a collection of dormant creative projects that had remained unexplored for years. One of them was the M.A.D.1, initially imagined as a playful gesture for friends and family before becoming an unexpected phenomenon. In the years that followed, the brand enjoyed remarkable success, fuelled by acclaimed releases and a series of prestigious GPHG awards.

For 2026, the SP One Pavée presents a fresh interpretation of the concept in 18K white gold. Without altering the architecture, the diamond setting follows the contours of the amphitheatre, case, crown and buckle, accentuating their sculptural forms with subtle brilliance while framing the movement. The inclined time display replaces the black dial of earlier editions with a deep blue tone. Rather than dominating the design, the 255 diamonds reveal a more precious side of the SP One while maintaining the restraint, harmony and understated elegance that define the collection.

Originally codenamed “Three Circles”, the SP One movement is organised around the three essential components of a mechanical watch: the barrel, balance wheel and dial. Beyond their functional role, each element is positioned to create the illusion of floating in space. Visible through sapphire crystals front and back, these elements appear suspended against gravity. The movement’s architecture intentionally reinforces this impression, resulting in a remarkably theatrical visual effect. Following a philosophy of reduction, bridges are kept discreet and most technical components remain hidden beneath the three focal points. Screws, wheels and structural elements are minimised to preserve the sensation of levitation. The three elements share identical diameters, a detail that significantly increases the complexity of the movement. The single-barrel construction is elegantly suspended and heightens the floating effect, while the balance wheel at 2 o’clock commands attention like a miniature spacecraft in motion.

In true MB&F fashion, the dial also appears to float. Angled to showcase the manufacture’s expertise in conical gearing, it introduces a subtle yet fascinating three-dimensional aspect. Rare within contemporary watchmaking, this solution combines technical sophistication with visual restraint. Despite its complexity, the architecture presents a remarkably intuitive view of how a mechanical watch functions, making the movement both engaging and accessible to observe.

Encircling the movement is what Max affectionately calls the “amphitheatre”: a finely bevelled flange inspired by the grandeur of Greco-Roman arenas, framing the mechanism and drawing attention to every detail. Turning the watch over reveals the reverse side of this stage, where meticulous hand-finishing demonstrates MB&F’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship. In an industry increasingly shaped by industrial processes, the brand remains one of the few dedicated to preserving artisanal finishing techniques.

The MB&F identity is evident throughout the SP One. Beyond its willingness to challenge expectations, the watch showcases an obsessive focus on movement design and finishing. Hand-angulated wheels, prominent chatons and a carefully balanced mix of satin, polished and micro-blasted surfaces create a subtle and sophisticated visual harmony. In addition to its unconventional movement, the SP One stands apart through its distinctive pebble-shaped case.

Although remarkably slim, the watch maintains a strong sense of volume and presence. Its smooth 38mm case evokes a river stone polished over time, offering an exceptionally tactile sensation. With no bezel and sapphire crystals flowing seamlessly into the case, the design enhances the impression of lightness and suspension. This effect is reinforced by specially engineered lugs that rise from the lower case rather than attaching directly to the upper section, creating elegant openings between the two surfaces. Every curve is designed to invite touch, making the SP One as satisfying to hold as it is to observe. The result is a watch that feels almost organic, combining futuristic aesthetics with a uniquely smooth physical presence.

While it is the thinnest watch in MB&F’s history, the SP One was never conceived as a record-breaking exercise in slimness. Instead, its proportions seek visual harmony, prioritising elegance, comfort and artistic expression over technical extremes. The concept of equilibrium lies at the heart of this Special Project. It challenges convention while remaining faithful to the brand’s identity, craftsmanship and creative values, opening new possibilities without abandoning its roots. In other words, it is an MB&F that appears classical at first glance, yet is anything but conventional.

The SP One is offered in three distinct editions: platinum paired with a sky-blue bevelled flange, rose gold featuring an anthracite bevelled flange, and an 18K white gold SP One Pavée with diamond-set case, crown and buckle, accompanied by a diamond-set rhodium-plated bevelled flange.