M.A.D.3 Vincent Calabrese: A Modern Wandering Hour at CHF 2,900

Key points

• The M.A.D.3 Vincent Calabrese is the third model in MB&F's affordable M.A.D. Editions line, priced at CHF 2,900 excluding VAT.
• It features a modern reinterpretation of Vincent Calabrese's Baladin complication, which combines wandering and jumping hours for a fluid time display.
• The watch uses a customized La Joux-Perret G111 automatic movement with a 55-hour power reserve and 28,800 vph frequency.
• The 40mm stainless steel case, designed by Eric Giroud, features a stepped bezel, floating lugs, and a sapphire caseback revealing a French inscription.
• Availability is split: a blue dial version is available via raffle, while a pink dial version is reserved for MB&F's 'Tribe and Friends'.

Background

M.A.D. Editions was founded by Maximilian Büsser to offer avant-garde watch designs at accessible prices, following the success of the M.A.D.1 and M.A.D.2. The M.A.D.3 continues this trend by collaborating with independent watchmaker Vincent Calabrese, who co-founded the AHCI and is known for innovations like the Golden Bridge and wandering hours. This release marks the first M.A.D. Edition dedicated to a specific watchmaker's legacy, building on the brand's collaborative approach.

How outlets are covering it

Fratello Watches emphasizes the watch's refined aesthetic and the natural feel of the Baladin display, noting its contrast with the more 'wacky' M.A.D.1 and M.A.D.2. Gear Patrol highlights the watch's dynamic motion as a counter to the static nature of traditional jump-hour complications, praising its lumed elements. Oracle Time focuses on the technical challenges of adapting Calabrese's artisanal design to a mass-produced movement, stressing the importance of stability for the jump-hour function. Revolution Watch contextualizes the Baladin within the history of wandering hours, noting its 17th-century origins and its inversion of the typical rotating satellite concept. All sources agree on the watch's technical specifications and pricing, but differ in their emphasis on the watch's aesthetic refinement versus its mechanical innovation.

Why it matters

The M.A.D.3 Vincent Calabrese demonstrates MB&F's ability to bring complex, historically significant complications to a wider audience at an accessible price point. It also highlights the ongoing relevance of vintage watchmaking concepts in modern horology, as brands seek to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. The collaboration with Calabrese, a respected figure in independent watchmaking, adds credibility and historical depth to the M.A.D. Editions line.

What to watch

The raffle for the blue dial M.A.D.3 Vincent Calabrese is open until September 7, 2026. Winners will be able to purchase the watch at CHF 2,900. The pink dial version is reserved for MB&F's 'Tribe and Friends' and will not be available to the general public. Future M.A.D. Editions may continue to feature collaborations with other watchmakers or designers, potentially exploring new complications or design concepts.