The Real Time Show: Max Büsser Brings Philosophy, Passion, And Principles To The Real Time Show

Podcast Information

• Title: The Real Time Show
• Hosts: Rob Nudds & Alon Ben Joseph
• Episode: Max Büsser Brings Philosophy, Passion, And Principles To The Real Time Show
• Release Date: May 25, 2025
• Description: Real questions. Real Answers. Real talk. The world's most interactive watchmaking podcast, hosted by Rob Nudds and Alon Ben Joseph.

Introduction

In this captivating episode of The Real Time Show, hosts Rob Nudds and Alon Ben Joseph welcome the illustrious Max Büsser, the visionary behind MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends), to discuss his profound impact on the watchmaking industry. After two decades of excellence, Max shares his insights on creativity, industry evolution, the challenges of modern technology, and his unwavering principles that continue to drive his innovative spirit.

MB&F’s Origin and Industry Impact

Rob Nudds opens the discussion by reflecting on MB&F’s journey, emphasizing Max’s personal quest rather than an attempt to revolutionize the industry.

Max Büsser [02:16]: “When I launched MB&F, it was not about changing the industry. It was very much a Personal quest. ... I was a very angry man... I needed to do something about it.”

Max acknowledges the accidental yet profound influence MB&F has had, sparking a new generation of creators and overcoming high barriers to entry that once stifled innovation.

The Evolution of the Watchmaking Industry and New Generations

Max expresses his optimism regarding the emergence of a new wave of watchmakers, attributing this resurgence to the foundational work of MB&F and peers like F.P. Journe and Urwerk.

Max Büsser [04:37]: “Now we've got a whole new generation of creators and that's fantastic...”

He reflects on the arduous early years of MB&F and the subsequent surge in demand, highlighting both the challenges and the unexpected success that followed.

Alon Ben Joseph commends Max’s humility and his commitment to fostering talent within the community, underscoring Max’s dedication to connecting various facets of production, retail, and media.

The Role of AI in Creativity and Future of Designers

A significant portion of the conversation delves into the influence of Artificial Intelligence on creativity and the future of design. Max shares his concerns about AI's role in diminishing human creativity:

Max Büsser [08:21]: “Creativity is about having an opinion, it's about having a point of view. So that's already a little bit scary.”

He discusses the potential risks of AI-generated designs lacking genuine innovation and originality, posing questions about the future landscape where machines might overshadow human creativity.

Max Büsser [14:03]: “Technology was supposed to make our lives easier and better, but what it's doing now, it's replacing our brains.”

Max emphasizes the importance of personal vision and pride in creation, asserting that true innovation stems from individual passion rather than commercial incentives.

Managing Creativity Under Constraints: MB&F vs. MAD Editions

The hosts pivot to discuss the creative dynamics within MB&F compared to its subsidiary, MAD Editions. Max contrasts the limitless possibilities within MB&F with the budget constraints faced by MAD Editions.

Max Büsser [27:20]: “In MB&F, having ideas amazingly doesn't seem to be an issue... The difficulty is not the ideas, the difficulty is the engineering...”

He elaborates on how financial limitations in MAD Editions necessitate smarter, more resourceful creativity, often leading to shelved projects or innovative solutions within set budgets.

Max Büsser [32:06]: “Creating in constraints has to make you smarter in a different way. And so there are dozens of ideas which have been shelved because they're just too expensive.”

This section highlights Max’s ability to adapt his creative process based on the available resources, maintaining the integrity and passion of the brand across different projects.

The Launch of Special Projects (SP1) and Breaking Boundaries

Addressing the newly launched Special Projects (SP1), Max reveals this venture as his most significant 20th-anniversary gift to himself, allowing unrestricted creativity.

Max Büsser [36:49]: “By creating SP1 Special Projects 1, I have given myself the most beautiful 20th anniversary gift a creator could help. ... Special Projects just basically says, no more boundaries. Do whatever you want.”

Max describes how SP1 represents a departure from traditional constraints, enabling him to explore unprecedented ideas without the limitations previously imposed by budget or brand identity.

HR and Team Management Philosophy

When asked about his exceptional HR skills and ability to manage a team of elite watchmakers, Max attributes his success to mutual respect and shared values.

Max Büsser [43:16]: “You bring people who have the same sort of human values, people who think we instead of me...”

He recounts his personal journey from a lonely, insecure youth to a leader who naturally attracts talented and like-minded individuals, fostering a collaborative and respectful work environment.

Max Büsser [47:15]: “One of the things I should be the most proud of is having brought all these amazing people together.”

Max emphasizes that his focus on collective pride and purpose over monetary gain has been pivotal in building a cohesive and motivated team.

Community Engagement: Mini Millions

Max delves into the Mini Millions project, a heartfelt initiative designed to thank MB&F’s loyal community. This project embodies the brand’s ethos of treating others with kindness and appreciation.

Max Büsser [50:07]: “The Mini Millions... it's about creating something that money can't buy... which embodies who we are, makes people smile...”

He details the meticulous process of designing and producing limited-edition figurines that celebrate MB&F’s milestone, underscoring the brand’s commitment to meaningful and personalized gestures toward its customers.

Max Büsser [55:19]: “I think it's made a lot of people happy and that's why we do it.”

The Mini Millions project not only reinforces community bonds but also highlights MB&F’s dedication to unique and thoughtful expressions of gratitude.

Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

As the episode winds down, Max shares his aspirations and ongoing projects, including the expansion of his podcast Tales from the Tribe. He remains optimistic about the future of watchmaking, emphasizing continual innovation and community engagement.

Max Büsser [49:18]: “We'll keep you guys posted on social media for sure.”

Rob Nudds concludes the episode with heartfelt appreciation for Max’s contributions to the industry and the engaging conversation, hinting at future collaborations and episodes that will continue to explore the fascinating world of haute horlogerie.

Notable Quotes

• Max Büsser [02:16]: “When I launched MB&F, it was not about changing the industry. It was very much a Personal quest.”

• Max Büsser [08:21]: “Creativity is about having an opinion, it's about having a point of view. So that's already a little bit scary.”

• Max Büsser [27:20]: “In MB&F, having ideas amazingly doesn't seem to be an issue... The difficulty is not the ideas, the difficulty is the engineering...”

• Max Büsser [43:16]: “You bring people who have the same sort of human values, people who think we instead of me...”

• Max Büsser [50:07]: “The Mini Millions... it's about creating something that money can't buy... which embodies who we are, makes people smile...”

Conclusion

Max Büsser’s appearance on The Real Time Show offers a profound exploration of creativity, innovation, and the human principles that drive MB&F’s success. His candid reflections on industry evolution, the challenges posed by emerging technologies, and his unwavering commitment to community and team values provide invaluable insights for enthusiasts and professionals alike. This episode not only celebrates two decades of MB&F’s artistic journey but also paves the way for future conversations on the intersection of craftsmanship, technology, and human spirit in watchmaking.