MB&F LM101 in Steel: A Collector's Second Chance and 'Exit Watch'

sham1 · 2025-02-12T08:58:41Z

Discover sham1's journey with the MB&F LM101 in steel, featuring a Straumann double hairspring. A collector's review on accuracy, dial color, and the concept of an 'exit watch' after 30 years.

sham1

WPS member · Independents forum

38 replies6076 views2 photos

In this insightful post, long-time collector sham1 shares his journey with the MB&F LM101, highlighting the challenges of acquiring high-end independent watches sight unseen and his personal quest for accuracy. His candid reflections on the updated movement and the emotional significance of this particular timepiece as his 'exit watch' offer a unique perspective on the collecting experience. sham1's post not only showcases a stunning watch but also delves into the deeper meaning of horological passion and the evolution of a collector's priorities.

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I am always a little apprehensive when buying a watch with a coloured dial without actually having seen the shade of whatever the colour may be. Unfortunately, sometimes with some brands especially with the high end independents, one is forced to take a chance which is exactly what I did when I was offered this new LM101. Way back in 2014 I did own one of the first rose gold LM101s which kept poor time even after the watch was re examined at MB&F. I have always liked the design of the LM101 and decided to give this watch a second chance since MB&F had improved the movement with the addition of the Straumann double hairspirng designed to make the watch more accurate.

I know many of you may say buying a LM101 is not about accuracy but for me when one is spending so much on a watch, it has to be accurate. I had even mentioned to Max Busser once that Greubel Forsey watches boasted an accuracy of plus 2 minus 1 so over plus 10 seconds for a LM101 seemed poor to me. I doubt though that my candour with Max had anything to do with him revising the movement with the Straumann double hairsping!

Well, fast forward to 12 February 2025 and my steel LM101 has just arrived. The hue of blue was a lot better than I had expected and the watch fits my wrist pretty well as you can see. What I have not mentioned to anyone and this forum is the first I am announcing it to is that after more than 30 years of collectimng that this is my exit watch. I can hear many of you disputing this but my reasons are simple - not only is this a very specail watch to end my collection with but I have actually run out of money to purchase anything else! (my bank manager with agree profusely!) I am a pensioner so whatever I have left will be for my wife and I in the years to come. But on the bright side, I now own seven amazing watches and I feel somewhat privileged to be the proud owner of each one.

I shall one day write a separate post on these seven watches after two of them return from service.

Thank you all for reading.

Key Points from the Discussion

The decision to repurchase an MB&F LM101, despite previous accuracy concerns, underscores a deep appreciation for the watch's aesthetic and design, suggesting that for many collectors, emotional connection can outweigh strict technical specifications.
Beyond the watches themselves, the true joy of collecting often lies in the community and the personal connections forged with fellow enthusiasts, attending events like Basel Fair and SIHH, and engaging on forums like WatchProSite.
The LM101 is considered one of the strongest designs within the MB&F Legacy Machine lineup, and the sentiment of reaching a point of contentment or considering a pause in collecting is a common experience among seasoned enthusiasts.
While acknowledging the mesmerising quality of the dial, the author reiterates that for him, good timekeeping is a crucial reflection of movement quality and the effort invested in regulation, even in high-end independent watches.
The concept of an 'exit watch' or ending a collecting journey is relatable, with some collectors finding peace with a curated selection and preferring to wear their watches rather than keeping them in a safe.
The challenge of ceasing collecting is often met with skepticism due to the addictive nature of the hobby, but practical constraints like limited funds in retirement can provide a definitive boundary.
Reducing a collection to a smaller, more manageable number of watches can bring appreciation for simplicity, especially later in life, highlighting a shift in collecting philosophy from accumulation to curation.

The Discussion

Marc Obermann

Feb 12, 2025

Well if you are going to end your journey, you may as well do it in spectacular fashion!!

That is just quite simply a stunning watch whatever part of the journey you may be on and I hope you continue to wear it in great health and much happiness. I too am soon to reach my 65th year on the planet and am now down to 4 watches and as I have no one to really leave them to, appreciate the simplicity of less is more. Marc

sham1

Feb 12, 2025

Thank you Marc!

I salute you being able to bring your collection down to four watches. For me, seven is already an achievement, considering I have probably bought and sold over 100 watches since 1992. And after numerous mistakes and a chnage of preferences, I am so pleased at the seven I have chosen.

taipeigirl89

Feb 12, 2025

congrats on such a gorgeous piece 😍

as for the end of the collecting journey, I can relate to that feeling. After my Saxonia thin, I think that, together with my Sub, will be all that I will be wearing. The rest all sit in a safe. I dislike that idea. I believe watches should be worn. My issue is i don't know how to part with them safely as I have never sold a single watch in the past. Looking forward to reading your reviews on your collection.

sham1

Feb 12, 2025

Thank you very much for your kind words.

I believe if you started selling one watch you will get the hang of it and it will then come quite naturally. Take it from someone who has sold over a hundred watches for various reasons over the years. I too believe that watches should be worn, just like cars should be driven!

indignantdenial

Feb 12, 2025

A fantastic end to your collection journey.

I can think of few better watches to cap it off. I hope the movement will be very accurate and consistent thank you for sharing. I look forward to your future write-ups about the other pieces.

sham1

Feb 12, 2025

Thank you for saying so!

I have been blessed with some very nice watches and I never thought there would be an end to purchasing watches but when one is retired, one's priorities need realigning. Still, I am happy with the seven that I have and look forward to sharing photos soon.

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MB&F LM101 in Steel: A Collector's Second Chance and 'Exit Watch'

Key Points from the Discussion

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