Montblanc Minerva Manufacture Villeret: Visit Overview

joenghenry · 2025-07-09T18:19:35Z

Explore joenghenry's exclusive visit to the Montblanc Minerva Manufacture at Villeret. Discover traditional watchmaking, hands-on craftsmanship, and the unique privileges of Club M58.

joenghenry

WPS member · Montblanc forum

32 replies3177 views20 photos

For luxury watch collectors, understanding the intricate craftsmanship behind their timepieces is paramount. Joenghenry, a privileged member of Club M58, offers an exclusive look into the Montblanc Manufacture at Villeret, detailing a rare, hands-on experience. His account provides invaluable insight into the traditional watchmaking techniques that define Minerva's legacy.

As a privilege of Club M58 member, my wife and I have had the opportunity to visit Minerva/ Montblanc Manufacture at Villeret, Switzerland one week ago, during our summer Europe trip for daughter’s graduation ceremony.

The dream-like visit started by limousine picking us up from our hotel at Geneva. After 1 hr 45 min drive, we arrived at the Villeret Manufacture.

After greeting by Hospitality Manager and Watch Specialist of the brand, we first learned from their micro mechanical engineer about the design and basic concepts of mechanical watches.

Followed by seeing the actual cutting of small parts of caliber using high precision electric charged wire (EDM cutting), artisans doing different steps of polishing/ hairspring manufacturing and even got a chance to try those different steps by ourselves.

Finally, it’s mind-blowing to meet the exact watchmaker who hand made my Minerva Club58 timepiece. A true homecoming!

The whole experience is fantastic and actually reminds me of my overseas training in surgery 16 years ago.

Heartfelt gratitude to the maison for their kind invitation.

I would strongly recommend other Club 58 member in our watch community (at least two more here) to attend this once in a lifetime experience 😊

Cheers, Henry

p.s. it was really hot at Europe during last two weeks.

Our ticket/ token to the visit

The manufacture at Villeret

The valley of Villeret giving the inspiration of Minerva V shaped bridge.

Antique enamel dial from their archive

Old records of the Maison

Old parts at the attic.

Iconic V shaped bridge with inward angle beveling

Different materials for caliber: copper beryllium alloy, 316 steel, German silver (from left to right)

EDM cutting for small parts of caliber

Hand polishing of small parts

Hands on practice of perlage by me (obviously much more irregular than those done by master artisans there)

A split second chronograph caliber in construction

Watchmaker’s view at their working bench

About the Montblanc Ref. 1858Collection

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.

Specifications

Caliber: MB 16.31

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 44mm

Dial: Burgundy

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Montblanc Club M58 offers exclusive privileges, such as manufacture visits, enhancing the enthusiast experience beyond typical ownership.
Montblanc's transparency in allowing photography and sharing the experience with the watch community is noteworthy, as many manufactures maintain stricter policies.
The opportunity to engage in hands-on practice, like perlage, provides a deeper appreciation for the skill and precision involved in watch finishing.
The working environment at Villeret, characterized by natural light and scenic views, is considered ideal for fostering the meticulous work of watchmakers.
The Club M58 membership threshold is described as approachable, suggesting accessibility for a broader range of Montblanc enthusiasts.

The Discussion

patrick_y

Jul 9, 2025

Seems like quite a tour and you learned quite a bit!

quattro

Jul 9, 2025

We can feel how great the experience was. Best, Emmanuel

KMII

Jul 9, 2025

Thanks for the photo journey 👋🏻

Marc Obermann

Jul 9, 2025

Having just watched the video posted in the other Minerva post I can only imagine how incredible your visit must have been it must of been mind blowing to see all of those things hands on. Marc

penfriend

Jul 9, 2025

I have been there several times and it is always so impressive 🥂👍

Champthekid

Jul 9, 2025

It would be a dream come true for me. I was not even aware of Club 58. Thanks so much sharing your rare trip, Henry!

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Montblanc Minerva Manufacture Villeret: Visit Overview

About the Montblanc Ref. 1858Collection

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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