Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph Review

KMII · 2017-05-13T23:19:50Z

KMII reviews the Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph, a monopusher with rotating discs. Explore its in-house movement and unique design.

KMII

WPS member · Montblanc forum

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KMII offers a compelling review of the Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph, nearly a decade after its initial release, following a visit to Montblanc's Vienna Boutique. He highlights how this monopusher chronograph, with its in-house movement and unique rotating disc display, solidified Montblanc's reputation as a serious watchmaker. This article provides a fresh perspective on a significant piece of modern horology.

At the recent reopening event of Montblanc's Vienna Boutique I have had the opportunity to more extensively try out some of their collection.

And one of the pieces I have not yet tried - mea culpa as a mod (albeit quite newly minted) has been the Nicolas Rieussec. Apart from the Villeret collection, this is probably the line that did most to establish Montblanc as a serious watch maker - a monopusher chronograph with an in-house movement (hand wound and automatic versions exist), and a novel (or very traditional - depending on perspective) way of reading the chronograph.

The rotating discs instead of hands are true to the first time writers of Nicolas Rieussec in terms of design aesthetic for a start. In addition they add an element of serenity that no other chronograph possesses in my humble opinion. While a collection of moving hands in the more conventional versions adds some drama, the disc movements are much more understated and exude calm.

Definitely a very fitting choice for a watch that's on the dressier side and that has no pretensions to sportiness.

The activation is with a monopusher, placed somewhat unconventionally at 8 o'clock - so most of the time (i.e. when you're not timing) it hides under the sleeve. Again well thought through for a more formal piece.

The operation is butter smooth and thereby also fitting.

Otherwise the watch sits comfortably on the wrist, even if it is quite large. The rose gold version I have tried is quite heavy - so definitely not a piece you will forget you are wearing.

So overall I have to say I liked it quite a lot. Not one that has been discussed here much recently but even if not quite new anymore it is both a serious piece of horology and a charming wrist companion at the same time.

Key Points from the Discussion

The blue hands and screws of the Rieussec Chronograph change color with ambient light, and its stylish numerals evoke a different era while maintaining a fresh dial aesthetic.
The Montblanc Rieussec Rising Hours is considered an even more innovative version due to its rotating hour disc, showcasing the line's overall innovation.
The watch's size, particularly the 43mm case, is a common point of discussion, with some collectors finding it too large and thick for their wrists.
The monopusher chronograph's activation at 8 o'clock is a thoughtful design choice for a dressier piece, as it remains hidden under a sleeve when not in use.
The Rieussec's rotating discs offer a serene and understated chronograph display, contrasting with the drama of conventional moving hands.
The Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph is recognized for its unique design and horological significance, even being displayed in the Patek Philippe museum.

The Discussion

jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)

May 14, 2017

if only they come in a smaller case of 40mm or 41mm. 43mm is a tad big for me (and it's thick too). I love this collection even if my wrist can't carry one. Cheers Robin

Alkiro1

May 14, 2017

I tried one several years ago and I had the same feeling. It is a little bit too big for my wrist too. Nevertheless, I really love this timepiece but in its manual winding versions (only two if I'm right). Best wishes Alkiro

Alkiro1

May 14, 2017

Same for me. Best wishes Alkiro

Alkiro1

May 14, 2017

I remember when I went to the PP museum. A Rieussec Chronograph can be viewed there. A very cool and versatile timepiece in my opinion if you think to all the different versions which are available. Best wishes Alkiro

KMII

May 14, 2017

Would certainly not be an everyday watch for me either - too skinny of wrist for that as well

KMII

May 14, 2017

Yet to try the manual one...

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