MB&F presents a walking turtle with a singing bird inside

Dec 16 , 2017

Kelys & Chirp is a mechanical automaton – a collaboration between MB&F, Reuge and Nicolas Court.

Press Kelys’ tail and he will start to gently walk across the table. After a few seconds, one of the scales on his back opens and his friend, Chirp, pops out, wings flapping and singing loudly

A turtle with a singing companion? How cute does that sound? MB&F presents Kelys & Chirp, two unlikely companions living happily together. The mechanical automaton is a collaboration between MB&F, mechanical music specialists Reuge, and Nicolas Court, one of Switzerland’s most talented automaton experts.

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A few second after Kely starts walking, Chirp pops out, wings flapping and singing loudly.

Press Kelys’ tail and he will start to gently walk across the table. After a few seconds, one of the scales on his back opens and his friend, Chirp, pops out, wings flapping and singing loudly. When Chirp finishes singing, she dives back into the shelter provided by Kelys’ shell and he continues his walk, unfazed. You can also enjoy a concert by Chirp without Kelys moving by pushing his tail up.

Assembling was a challenge as Kelys & Chirp has 480 components.

Kelys & Chirp may look relatively simple compared to a complicated watch, but its 480 components (enough for a minute repeater) are testament to the complexity within.

Turtles have long represented wisdom in many cultures because of their long life spans (up to 190 years). While Kelys is certainly wise enough (an integrated mechanical sensor makes sure that he doesn’t walk off table or desk tops), it’s his playful streak that complements Chirp’s musical talent.

Kelys & Chirp is available in four colours..

Kelys & Chirp is offered in four limited editions of just 18 pieces each in blue, yellow, green and ochre. It is priced at about HK$386,500.

MB&F

Helen Miao

Helen has worked as a sub-editor for 26 years. She is currently a sub-editor on Specialist Publications. She mainly works on STYLE magazine, but she also helps out with other magazines and supplements. In addition, she edits web posts and Facebook posts, and sometimes writes a few scoops for STYLE. Prior to joining STYLE, Helen was the chief sub-editor of South China Morning Post’s student paper, Young Post.