Maison Alcée x MB&F Nostromo: A DIY Alien Desk Clock for Watch Enthusiasts

Introducing the Maison Alcée x MB&F Nostromo

Just before Geneva Watch Days, MB&F and Maison Alcée have unveiled a remarkable build-it-yourself mechanical desk clock. Named after the spaceship from the first Alien movie, the Nostromo is an alien-like creation that reflects MB&F's fascination with extraterrestrial design and Maison Alcée's expertise in DIY clock kits.

The collaboration celebrates the 15th anniversary of MB&F's M.A.D. Gallery, a space dedicated to avant-garde watches, kinetic art, and moving sculptures by independent artists. Founded by Max Büsser in 2011, the gallery has always embraced dynamic creations, making Maison Alcée a natural partner.

A Perfect Match for Kinetic Philosophy

Maison Alcée, founded in 2021 by Alcée and Benoît Montfort, specializes in build-it-yourself mechanical clocks. Their first table clock, Persée, comes as a kit with 233 components, designed for those who want to learn watchmaking hands-on. As Alcée Montfort explains, 'Everything is presented in a highly pedagogical way, but it isn't child's play. We didn't want to make a toy for adults; this is a genuine horological project, but one that comes with all the support clients need to succeed.'

The Nostromo was envisioned by MB&F's creative designer Maximilian Maertens and brought to life by Maison Alcée. It features a central ring and two rounded protrusions at either end, mounted horizontally on three spidery legs. The assembly process is similar to Persée but offers a unique horizontal layout.

Design and Features

The desk clock displays hours and minutes on a central peacock blue ring with black hands, and a running seconds subdial at 3 o'clock. It also includes an on-demand hour-chiming function. The movement boasts an impressive 14-day power reserve and is designed to be assembled in about 10 hours. The only pre-assembled component is the regulating organ.

Accompanied by a 250-page instruction manual with video content accessible via QR codes, the Nostromo weighs 760 grams and measures 160mm in length, 134mm in width, and 123mm in height. It is crafted from brass, stainless steel, and German silver.

Availability and Price

The Maison Alcée x MB&F Nostromo is a limited edition of 50 pieces, available exclusively through M.A.D. Galleries in Geneva and Dubai and MB&F LABs worldwide. The retail price is CHF 12,000 (excl. VAT).

Technical Specifications

Case: 160mm length x 123mm height x 135mm width - desk clock made of stainless steel, brass, and German silver - 3 alien-style feet support the desk clock - designed by MB&F creative designer Maximilian Maertens, crafted by Maison Alcée
Display: Horizontally arranged movement with hours and minutes on central peacock blue ring indicated by black hands - running seconds at 3 o'clock - on-demand hour chime
Movement: DIY clock kit with 222 components - brass gears - steel base plate, dial, axles, gears, and spacers - German silver bushes - 14-day power reserve - 760 grams - only the regulating organ is pre-assembled - presented with a 250-page instruction manual with video content via QR codes
Availability: Limited edition of 50 pieces - available exclusively through M.A.D. Galleries in Geneva and Dubai and MB&F LABs worldwide
Price: CHF 12,000 (excl. VAT)

Buying Tips

For collectors interested in this unique timepiece, it's essential to act quickly due to the limited production run. Verify authenticity by purchasing only from official M.A.D. Galleries or MB&F LABs. As a DIY kit, ensure you have the time and patience to complete the assembly, as it requires about 10 hours of focused work.

Authenticity Notes

Given the exclusivity and price, counterfeit versions may appear. Always check for the official M.A.D. Gallery stamp and the unique serial number on the movement. The accompanying manual and packaging should be of high quality, matching the brand's standards.