L’Epee 1839 Manufacture Visit: MB&F Clocks

sebks · 2024-09-28T17:54:55Z

Explore the L’Epee 1839 manufacture in Delemont, Switzerland. See the craftsmanship behind MB&F collaborations like L’Albatros and Starfleet Machine, and unique Time Fast clocks.

Sebks provides an exclusive look into the L’Epee 1839 manufacture, a Swiss clock maker renowned for its avant-garde designs and collaborations with brands like MB&F. This report offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on the traditional craftsmanship and innovative spirit that define L'Epee's unique horological creations. The detailed images capture the intricate process, from raw materials to the final assembly of these extraordinary clocks.

I’ve been lucky to visit l’Epee 1839 yesterday, here are some pics of the tour.

L’Epee is one of the oldest Swiss clock maker and gained significant hype in recent years thanks to its collaboration with MB&F. But they’re also working a lot with other brands, if you see an exciting / innovative clock somewhere in the catalog of an established watch brand l’Epee is most likely behind it.

Almost everything is done in house under the same roof in Delemont, a single watchmaker assembles the clock, it has a very old school vibe which contrasts with the avant garde designs.

A huge thanks to Chris and L’Epee team for having us !

L’Albatros, the latest MB&F collab. Quite a masterpiece at 17kg / 120k chf

raw materials before the Swiss magic happens

A lot of production steps are done by hand

Starfleet Machine, the 1st MB&F

Schaublin all over

It looks like an engine cover but it’s just a clock component

These riffles only kill time (no actual shooting)

Each is a piece unique covered in exotic leather (starting at 70k chf). The winding is done via the Winchester like never

The Time Fast best seller before body assembly

The Orb, my favorite MB&F collab

Key Points from the Discussion

L'Epee 1839's clocks, particularly those from collaborations like the MB&F Starfleet Machine and L’Albatros, are highly regarded as pieces of art due to their intricate design and craftsmanship.
The manufacturing process at L'Epee 1839 involves significant handcraft, with almost everything done in-house under one roof, and a single watchmaker often assembling an entire clock, blending old-school techniques with avant-garde designs.
Many collectors express a strong desire to own L'Epee clocks, with some already possessing multiple pieces, highlighting the brand's significant appeal in the horological community.
The 'Time Rifles' by L'Epee, which are unique clocks designed to resemble firearms and wound via a Winchester-like lever, are particularly coveted by enthusiasts.

The Discussion

hora12reborn

Sep 28, 2024

Thanks for sharing. Really interesting.

amanico

Sep 28, 2024

Thank you so much for the informations and photos. And for having taken the time to write it!

AuHavrePro

Sep 28, 2024

I'd love to have one of those time rifles!! =D

Much appreciate your pictorial report! Cheers, Filip

patrick_y

Sep 28, 2024

Wonderful! Thanks for sharing!

Watchonthewrist

Sep 29, 2024

Thank you for sharing this story.

I love there clocks a lot and own a few . Hope to visit them at some point

nasseriq

Sep 29, 2024

These projects are pieces of art.

L’Epee 1839 Manufacture Visit: MB&F Clocks

Key Points from the Discussion

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