Montblanc Heritage Chronometrie ExoTourbillon Review

The Rolex Bubble Back, reference 1858, represents an early example of Rolex's self-winding waterproof wristwatches. This reference is part of the broader Bubble Back family, characterized by its distinctive domed case back designed to accommodate the thicker automatic movement of the era. It showcases Rolex's foundational efforts in developing robust and reliable automatic timepieces for everyday wear, laying groundwork for future Oyster Perpetual models.

This particular reference features an 18k white gold case, measuring 38mm in diameter. It is fitted with a sapphire crystal, protecting a silver dial. The watch is powered by an automatic movement, specifically the Boucheron 1858 caliber, offering a power reserve of 42 hours. The fixed bezel and leather strap complete the watch's classic presentation.

For collectors, the reference 1858 holds interest as an early and relatively rare iteration within the Bubble Back series, especially in white gold. Its larger case size for the period also makes it appealing to modern tastes. The presence of a date complication adds to its functionality, distinguishing it from simpler time-only Bubble Back models and highlighting Rolex's early integration of practical features.

The Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Monopusher Chronograph, featuring the in-house caliber MBR200, represents a significant horological offering from Montblanc. This model pays homage to Nicolas Rieussec, the inventor of the chronograph, by incorporating his original ink-dropping time-recording mechanism into its dial design with rotating discs for elapsed seconds and minutes.

The MBR200 is an automatic monopusher chronograph movement, distinguished by its column-wheel mechanism and vertical clutch. It operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and offers a substantial power reserve. The movement is visible through a sapphire caseback, showcasing traditional finishing techniques such as Côtes de Genève and circular graining.

This reference is notable for its blend of historical inspiration and modern watchmaking, positioning Montblanc as a serious contender in the manufacture space. Its unique dial layout and sophisticated movement appeal to collectors seeking distinctive chronographs with in-house capabilities.

The Montblanc Heritage Chronometrie ExoTourbillon Minute Chronograph, powered by the caliber MB R230, represents a significant fusion of Montblanc's horological capabilities. It combines the monopusher chronograph, a hallmark of the Nicolas Rieussec collection from the Le Locle manufacture, with the patented ExoTourbillon developed at the Villeret manufacture. This integration showcases Montblanc's strategy to leverage innovations across its distinct production sites, creating a flagship complication for the Heritage Chronometrie line.

The MB R230 movement features a monopusher chronograph with a double barrel, providing a substantial power reserve. The ExoTourbillon, characterized by its balance wheel positioned outside the rotating cage, includes a stop-seconds function for precise time setting. The watch is presented in a round case, often in precious metals, with a dial layout designed to highlight both the chronograph functions and the visible ExoTourbillon.

For collectors, this reference is notable for its technical ambition and the combination of two complex in-house complications. It reflects Montblanc's commitment to haute horlogerie and its unique approach to tourbillon design. The watch offers a blend of traditional chronograph functionality with a distinctive tourbillon mechanism, positioning it as a key piece within Montblanc's high-complication offerings.

The Montblanc 1858 Split Second Chronograph is a limited edition offering within the 1858 collection, distinguished by its complex split-second chronograph complication. This particular reference, limited to 100 pieces, features a unique burgundy dial, setting it apart from other models in the series and appealing to collectors seeking a more exclusive and visually distinct timepiece with advanced horological functions.

The watch is housed in a stainless steel case measuring 44mm in diameter and 15.2mm in thickness. It is fitted with a fixed 18k white gold fluted bezel. The dark burgundy dial, finished with a sunray pattern, complements the case materials. Protecting the dial is a sapphire crystal. The timepiece is powered by the hand-wound MB 16.31 calibre, which measures 38.4 x 8.13 mm, and offers a power reserve suitable for its intricate mechanical functions.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in high-complication chronographs and Montblanc's Minerva heritage. Its limited production run and specific dial color make it a notable variant within the 1858 collection, offering a blend of historical design cues and modern watchmaking. The large dimensions reflect its pocket watch-inspired movement architecture, a characteristic often appreciated by enthusiasts of traditional horology.