It takes creative genius to manufacture a clock resembling a robot, and MB&F is one of the few modern brands with the desire to push the limits of traditional watchmaking and produce a kinetic sculptural piece, which is both whimsical and practical. Introduced at SIHH in 2016, Sherman was a collaborative effort between MB &F and partner L’Epée 1839. The body is structured using watch parts with movement plates and bridges forming the skeleton and body, the 8-day mainspring barrel extends down and supports rubber-clad caterpillar tracks, while the domed glass head reveals the mechanical brain represented by the regulator and balance wheel. While the design is all MB & F, the engineering design is by L’Epée 1839.

It is well-known Maximilian Büsser’s inspiration comes from his childhood and fascination with science fiction of the 1960s and 1970s. Sherman has the vibe of early television representations of what a robot would and could look like. His flexible extended arms have claws and he moves along a rubber track. Produced in four series, 200 examples with palladium-plated brass, 200 examples with gold-plated brass and 50 of each set with diamonds that rim the glass head, outline Sherman’s eyes, and front the clock dial, which represents the heart of the robot.

The present example is in like new condition and accompanied by its guarantee. Sherman is traditional in that he only tells time, and without complications, but he is also a thoroughly modern and contemporary sculptural piece with a fusion of mechanics and art. The goals for Sherman were for him to tell time and to make people smile, and in this instance the goals were well met.