The fascination of assembling something yourself has reached a new peak with the Nostromo desk clock, crafted by MB&F and Maison Alcée. To begin your journey with this intricate masterpiece, it is priced at CHF 12,000 and arrives as 222 separate components, awaiting your skillful assembly. Nestled in a wooden box alongside watchmaking tools and a detailed 250-page guide, this project invites you to become part of the creation process.
Envisioned by Maximilian Maertens, the Nostromo celebrates 15 years of MB&F’s M.A.D.Gallery. Its design echoes a chrome beetle perched elegantly on your desk, with parts crafted meticulously in the French and Swiss Jura. The assembly promises approximately ten hours of meticulous work, resulting in a clock with a 14-day power reserve and a switchable hour chime. Fifty of these exclusive pieces exist globally.
The artistry of design in the creation process
Housed in a symmetrical steel ovoid, the Nostromo features brushed arcs and a vibrant peacock blue dial ring at its heart. Its silhouette, reminiscent of a scarab, complete with three strikingly curved legs, adds a touch of the organic to this mechanical marvel. Designed for amateur assembly, the clock’s movement architecture is strategically simplified without compromising on its sculptural essence.
For more insights into intricate designs, explore Thurneisser’s Astrolabium’s blend of astrology and engineering, showcasing a fusion of art and ancient technology.
A vision revisited
The Nostromo’s movement draws inspiration from the Persée, a clock Maison Alcée introduced in 2022. Maertens reimagined this design, accentuating the importance of the construction phase by turning it sideways, splitting the dial ring to spotlight the gear train, and ensuring effortless readability. Black hands contrast sharply against the brass components, adding to the clock’s refined elegance.
The choice of materials is deliberate. The visible slotted screws and brushed steel highlight a tactile interaction for the assembler, enabling them to truly put it together, all safeguarded by specially composed copper-beryllium screwdrivers to prevent scratches. The kit, thoughtfully designed with seventeen tailored tools, ensures that even novices can partake in horological craftsmanship.
If you’re intrigued by unique timepieces, discover a miniature Rolls-Royce built with remarkable detail, illustrating craftsmanship and creativity.
A narrative inspired by legend
The name Nostromo, borrowed from a Joseph Conrad novel and reminiscent of Ridley Scott’s industrial spacecraft, adds a layer of narrative depth. Maertens, inspired by H.R. Giger’s aesthetic influence, merges industrial design with biomorphic allure, a hallmark of MB&F’s explorations since 2007.
Retailing at CHF 12,000 ($14,840 USD) through M.A.D.Galleries in Geneva and Dubai as well as MB&F LABs worldwide, the Nostromo offers not just a clock, but a hands-on lesson in horology. Deliveries are scheduled from October to November. With only 50 units available, this is more than just a purchase; it’s an invitation to join an exclusive, tactile celebration of mechanical artistry—offering a distinctive chance to engage in this artistic journey.
Source: yankodesign.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the price of the Nostromo desk clock?
The Nostromo desk clock is priced at CHF 12,000.
How many separate components come with the Nostromo desk clock?
The Nostromo desk clock arrives as 222 separate components.
How long does it take to assemble the Nostromo desk clock?
The assembly promises approximately ten hours of meticulous work.