Did someone say MonoPusher and Bi-Compax chronograph? Here you go with the Montblanc 1858 Monopusher Chronograph Limited Edition.
Especially after the Minerva acquisition, we are safe to say that Montblanc succeeded in all the chronograph models it has produced up to now. The models introduced in SIHH this year also confirmed this. Here we have the Ref. 117834 model, which was my favorite, from the highly acclaimed 1858 Collection that was introduced at the SIHH 2018 with a variety of novelties.
When I first saw that timepiece, it looked familiar to me as it was quite similar with the bronze case model which was a unique timepiece exclusively designed to be sold on last year’s OnlyWatch auction. The model I have here is the stainless steel version of that unique piece. And this time it is limited to 100 pieces, not one.
The new model comes in a stainless steel case measuring 40mm x 12,15mm which makes it quite wearable as the unique version had a 44mm diameter case. The case is water resistant to 100 meters and it is equipped with scratch proof sapphire crystals on both sides. The sapphire crystal on the front is domed to boost the retro appeal and anti-reflective coated for improved legibility.
Montblanc calls the dial tone as “smoked green”. Despite its good looks, it is not the best color for a daily wear timepiece. The overall design of the dial is impeccable excluding a small detail; the hands on the sub-counters are finished in white. I know that the white finish makes them more legible but on the other hand it slightly ruins the integrity of the dial.
The viewing pleasure continues at the back of the watch. Montblanc 1858 Monopusher Chronograph Limited Edition 100 (Ref. 117834) is powered by the in-house Caliber MB M13.21 which is the up to date version of the Caliber 13.20 manufactured in 1920s by the recently acquired watchmaker Minerva.
18 jewels self-winding movement beats at 18000vph and offers 55 hours of power reserve when fully wound. Signature details of Minerva like the V shaped chronograph bridge and arrow figure are also present on the caliber.
The new model is offered on a beautiful green alligator strap which is secured by a Montblanc signed stainless steel buckle. The strap offers the same green alligator leather lining as we happen to see some (not everyone) of those high-end Swiss brands.
Montblanc 1858 Monopusher Chronograph Limited Edition 100 (Ref. 117834) is limited to a span of 100 units only with a MSRP of 28.800,00 EUR.For more information, please visit the Montblanc website.
