In line with the upcoming SIHH 2017, brand new model introductions are continuing at full speed. Montblanc strengthened its position in the world of luxury watches with recent breakthroughs and introductions of three new bronze models to the highly acclaimed 1858 Collection. The most noteworthy model in the new product line is the 1858 Chronograph.
Montblanc 1858 Automatic - Montblanc 1858 Automatic Dual Time
The 1858 Chronograph Bronze is inspired by the 1930s pilot watches. The most prominent feature of the model, which brings together details like wide style Arabic numerals, cathedral-style hands, thin fonts, and curved glass are often found in the timepieces of the same era, and undoubtedly its bronze case.
The bronze alloy used by Montblanc is actually a bit different than the classic bronze alloy we know. Apart from the typical copper and tin mixture, Montblanc, which uses aluminum in its bronze alloy, has managed to make a difference in the "patina" appearance which is the most important feature of bronze watches. Also used in the recent Tudor Heritage Black Bay Bronze model, this alloy provides a more homogeneous, user-friendly patina, instead of the green and irregularly grown patina produced by the standard bronze alloy.
“The 1858 Collection, which was added to the Montblanc product line by 2016 and was launched by Davide Cerrato, president of the brand’s watch division, seems to continue to make please the watch aficionados with versions made of the trending alternative material bronze along its vintage inspired character. ”
The 44mm diameter case sports lines that we recognize from the classic pilot-style watches. The front side of the completely brushed bronze case features a domed sapphire crystal glass which mimics the plexiglas crystals found in vintage watches. In the back side, the movement can be seen thanks to the wide sapphire crystal display. The metal part of the caseback is made of titanium but coted with bronze tone PVD to fit the model’s overall appearance. In fact, this is quite common in bronze watches because bronze alloy is not a skin-friendly material.
The onion shaped, winding crown operates the mono-pusher style chronograph function, and also suits nicely with the model’s retro character.
The watch dial is designed in accordance with the vintage concept, which is the main asset of the 1858 Collection. The large Arabic indexes are accompanied by cathedral-style arms, and no date window has been included. The preferred lettering for prints on the dial with the Bi-Compax chronograph sequence also captured a concept-compatible image.
The color palette on the dial is quite striking… The surface, which is predominantly designed with a pale beige tone that matches the vintage concept, offers a monochromatic image, but it is also nicely balanced with cleverly placed red accents and pink gold-tone hands. In the hands and indexes, Super Luminova phosphorus material is used in a special tone which resembles the radium seen in vintage watches.
The watch is powered with the Caliber Ref. MB M16.29 which fits the vintage concept perfectly. The hand wound movement is designed by the legendary manufacturer Minerva which was acquired by Montblanc in 2008. Based on a 1930s pocket watch movement, the caliber seems to be the best choice for the model.
Unlike the typical rhodium plating found in most movements, Caliber Ref. MB M16.29 features bridges and base plate plated in red gold, again a visual resemblance by the watches of the 1930s. Thanks to its large structure, the caliber, which completely fills the 44mm frame, is decorated with details that reveal Minerva roots.
The 1858 Collection, which was added to the Montblanc product line by 2016 and was launched by the president of the brand’s watch division, Davide Cerrato, seems to continue to please the watch aficionados with versions made of the trending alternative material bronze along with its vintage inspired character.
Available starting April 2017, the 1858 Chronograph Tachymeter Limited Edition (ref. 116243) is priced at €27,500 with a limited edition of 100 pieces only.
