Montblanc: Choosing My First Watch

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KMII shares a personal journey into the world of Montblanc horology, prompted by a thoughtful Christmas gift of a Meisterstück pen. This post explores his considerations for a first Montblanc watch, weighing options from the Heritage Chronométrie, Nicolas Rieussec, and Timewalker lines, and inviting community input on his potential acquisition.

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There are many ways to go about describing this. If we take the salt of the Earth wisdom, it goes something along the lines of 'birds of a feather flock together'. There is the more scientific nature versus nurture way of debating this. Genetics, what have you

Fact is that since I have taken on this role, Montblanc has taken an increasingly active part of my life. Enter the surprising - very pleasantly so - MB Christmas present from one of my relatives, who knows nothing of my role here but who was spot on whith the choice.

So now I seem to have the 'tools' for getting into the world of Montblanc horology proper (tucked safely inside).

Next thing I need to write to Santa for my first Montblanc watch... Will need to be an Orthodox one (Father Frost) or a Chinese one (not sure how that one is called), given the timing...

The question remaining is what to write... The watch below would be a natural choice, albeit very difficult to obtain at this point. Given that Santa will draw upon the same bank account I otherwise use, there is the budget to consider, too...

Not even sure what line to go for, and whether it will be something more from the practical or romantic part of the spectrum. As for practical, I could very well imagine going down the Heritage Chronometrie route, with the watch being a great entry level dress watch that I would instantly use and which would anger neither my wife, nor my banker

Been wondering about this one since before I ever dreamt of a close(r) relationship to the brand (here: www.watchprosite.com) and having tried it on it is certainly a really stellar deal. The 38mm x 5,8mm size is simply perfect, the dial has just the amount of info necessary and no more and while the movement appears to be a tad small for the case (here a solid case back would probably have hidden this better), it's not that much of a deal.

Or something from the Nicolas Rieussec line, maybe even a Timewalker? A first PC? An Orbis Terrarum that Robin has so successfully been demonstrating here? Or should I wait for some 2017 announcements before taking the plunge? Only time will tell, I guess

In the meantime I am more than happy for all suggestions and advice from fellow Purists

Key Points from the Discussion

The Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph is identified as a seminal watch that established Montblanc as a true manufacture, moving beyond cased-up third-party movements.
The GMT version of the Rieussec line is highlighted as a bonus for travelers, and the chronograph's dial layout earned it the nickname "Bull Face Chronograph."
The Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie Ultra-Slim is praised for its perfect 38mm x 5.8mm size and clean dial, making it a strong contender for an entry-level dress watch.
The bronze 1858 monopusher chronograph is predicted to be a standout release for 2017, suggesting it as a strong acquisition choice.
The Montblanc Orbis Terrarum is also suggested as a good, solid choice, demonstrating the breadth of appealing options within the brand's catalog.
The discussion extends to Montblanc writing instruments, with collectors sharing their personal pen collections and preferences, linking the brand's heritage.

The Discussion

amanico

Jan 1, 2017

Orbis Terrarum is a good choice.

1858 Tachymeter is on another league. If you can fund and find it, go! Best, Nicolas

KMII

Jan 1, 2017

Thanks Nico!

You have of course played an active part in poisoning me with the 1858 Tachymeter. I guess you will recognise the specimen in the picture But as you say, the Orbis Terrarum is definitely a good, solid choice. Will need to sleep on it some more, I guess...

amanico

Jan 1, 2017

The Orbis Terrarum would have been my first Montblanc... If I didn't cross the 1858 Tachymeter way! [nt]

KMII

Jan 1, 2017

So many ifs in our horological journeys :)

Of course Robin's extra special Villeret would be a contender, too but I know I can neither find nor fund it at short notice, so it is unlikely to be one of the first...

amanico

Jan 1, 2017

That is why the Orbis Terrarum is an excellent choice. Fairly ( normally priced, should I say ) and friendly. [nt]

KMII

Jan 1, 2017

You are right there :)

Definitely a likely candidate!

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