Split-seconds chronographs are inherently cool. It may not get the love of complications like the minute repeater, but it’s not too far off the haute horlogerie table, especially in more traditional versions like last year’s Montblanc 1858 model. Now, we get an updated version of this stunning chronograph in a fantastic new colorway.
The focal point of the new piece is the striking blue Grand Feu enamel dial, which is created by applying powder to a solid gold dial and firing it at high temperatures. The depth of color is spectacular, with orange highlights popping up everywhere, creating an attractive retro-sporty look that’s perfect for a split-seconds chronograph.
In addition to the blue, the dial is dominated by a pair of chronograph readouts. The first is near the edge as usual, but is actually a telemetry scale for measuring distance using sight and sound – like a flash of lightning and the thunder that follows. The usual tachymeter scale – for measuring speed – is actually spiraled down the center of the dial. It’s a strange but practical layout – if you actually use it as a stopwatch.
If it looks like there’s a lot going on on this dial, flip the watch over. The MB M16.31 movement is one of the most incredible, essentially a scaled-down version of a pocket watch movement. The whole thing is made in-house (entirely in-house, no such third-party nonsense), and is a more historical take on modern watchmaking. Montblanc is showing off its much-praised Minerva-made horological chops.
A throwback to haute horlogerie tradition, it’s priced at $36,000 – just shy of £28,900 – but that’s not bad at all considering what’s on offer, namely one of the most beautiful watches of the year. It’s not exactly accessible, but there are only 100 of these babies anyway. Accessibility isn’t important here. Excellence is.
Price and Specs:
Model Name: Montblanc 1858 Split Second Chronograph Limited Edition 100
Case/Dial: 44 mm diameter x 14.55 mm thickness, grade 5 titanium, dark blue Grand Feu enamel dial
Water Resistance: 30m (3 bar)
Movement: Calibre Montblanc Manufacture Calibre MB M16.31, manual-winding
Power Reserve: 50 hours
Frequency: 18,000 vph (2.5 Hz)
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds; Split-second chronograph with tachymeter and telemeter
Strap: Blue Sfumato alligator leather strap from Montblanc Pelletteria, Florence, Italy, with titanium pin buckle
Price: $36,000, available September 2020, limited to 100 pieces
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