Actor Akhil Akkineni spotted wearing a MB&F

Telugu film actor Akhil Akkineni was recently photographed holding the MB&F M.A.D.2 Redemption, a limited-edition mechanical wristwatch that defies conventional watch design. The image captures the 42mm stainless steel case and its signature playful crown modeled after an alien head—a thematic hallmark of MB&F's Machine Automaton Dérive collection.

The M.A.D.2 Redemption houses a base La Joux-Perret Calibre G101 automatic movement beating at 4Hz with a robust 64-hour power reserve. MB&F engineered a custom bi-directional jumping hours and trailing minutes module that animates two rotating sub-dials on the floating dial plate. The Redemption variant features red sub-dials mounted against a black dial plate, with the rotor visible through cutouts highlighted in Super-LumiNova. The sapphire crystal and exhibition caseback allow full visibility of both the movement and the unconventional dial architecture. Water resistance stands at 30 meters—appropriate for a haute horlogerie art piece rather than a dive watch.

The M.A.D.2 Redemption differs from its R&B sibling through inverted color schemes and dial plate geometry. MB&F limited production to exactly 1,500 pieces across both variants, lending scarcity to an already niche collector segment. The watch appeals to those who prioritize kinetic sculptural movement over traditional readability; the jumping hours and trailing minutes require an adjustment period but reward engagement.

Akhil Akkineni's wearing of the M.A.D.2 Redemption reflects growing appreciation for experimental watchmaking across Indian cinema and beyond. Rather than gravitating toward prestige Swiss brands, progressive collectors now recognize MB&F's position as an independent manufacture dedicated to mechanical innovation and unconventional aesthetics.

The MB&F M.A.D.2 Redemption carries a retail price of CHF 2,900 (approximately USD 3,200 at current rates), though secondary market prices have climbed to USD 6,000 or higher as availability tightens. Waitlists at authorized dealers remain lengthy, and grey-market demand continues to outpace official supply.