MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual vs. Romain Gauthier Logical One: A Collector's Grail Quest

m2 · 2022-07-24T17:47:58Z

Explore a collector's journey comparing MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual, Romain Gauthier Logical One, and H. Moser & Cie. Micro-Insight for a grail watch. Get expert insights on independent horology.

WPS member · Independents forum

11 replies2489 views3 photos

In a quest for a horological grail, m2 shares a firsthand account of evaluating three highly coveted independent timepieces: the MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual, the Romain Gauthier Logical One, and the H. Moser & Cie. Endeavour Centre Seconds Micro-Rotor. His detailed comparison, based on an in-person viewing, offers invaluable insights into the nuances of these exceptional watches, particularly regarding their aesthetic impact and wearability. This exploration highlights the critical importance of experiencing high-end independent watches in person before making a significant acquisition.

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I've been trying to decide between the perpetual MB&F, Logical from Gauthier or the Micro Insight, and finally got to check them out in-person a few weeks ago in LA at Rostovky. Dealt with Chad there who was great.

When compared to the MB&F and the Logical1, I think the Micro-Insight was a little bland/boring. Was surprised as it was very close for me prior to seeing them in-person. My big concern was the size of the Logical 1 + MB&F, but both were completely fine.

The MB&F also looked way, way better in-person than I had expected, and probably leaning into that... The movement is just bananas in-person. Only issue is perpetuals are kind of generally scary lol. I like the simplicity of time only!

Had the chance to see a few Gruebels as well. Definitely too big for me personally, and the aesthetic doesn't quite appeal the same way as an MB&F or Gauthier does to me. Very very well made though, and the convex (?) crystal is ridiculously cool.

Some pics

Key Points from the Discussion

The MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual is often favored for its aesthetic appeal and innovative complication, even when compared to watches with potentially superior finishing like the Romain Gauthier Logical One.
For those who appreciate simplicity and a sportier aesthetic, the MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual EVO version is a compelling alternative to the standard Perpetual.
The Romain Gauthier Logical One is frequently considered a top choice among collectors due to its distinctive personality and style, despite strong competition from MB&F.
When considering an MB&F Legacy Machine, exploring non-perpetual versions can be a viable option for those who prefer simpler complications or are wary of the complexities associated with perpetual calendars.
Despite their exceptional craftsmanship, brands like Greubel Forsey may not appeal to all collectors due to their larger size and distinct aesthetic, emphasizing the personal nature of 'grail' watch selection.
The decision between these high-horology independent pieces is highly personal, with each watch offering a unique blend of design, complication, and finishing that resonates differently with individual collectors.
The community expresses keen interest in future releases from independent brands like Romain Gauthier, indicating a desire for continued innovation and new interpretations of their signature models.

The Discussion

Mohannad (aka Riddler)

Jul 24, 2022

All great watches but if I had to choose I would go with the logical 1

For me I prefer the MB&F Evo version of the perpetual as it is more sportier and more aesthetically appealing to me

Obeezy

Jul 24, 2022

1. I too prefer the Logical 1. You cannot go wrong and it’s a matter of personal taste.

amanico

Jul 24, 2022

Logical one for me, too. It kills all the others, at least in my opinion.

Cozmopak

Jul 24, 2022

I’ve already made my choice

Obeezy

Jul 24, 2022

😍😍😍 You’ve made it clear!

andrea~

Jul 24, 2022

You can't go wrong with either, but...

...if it were me choosing, I'd pick the LM Perpetual. MB&F is my favorite independent. The Logical One may have slightly better finishing, but the LM is better looking and has a cooler complication in my opinion.

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