Manufacture
ED209's report documents a special Montblanc VIP event in Los Angeles, offering an exclusive look at the brand's latest timepieces from SIHH 2012 and an opportunity to meet Mr. Alexander Schmiedt, Managing Director Watches. The article provides a detailed overview of several significant Montblanc watches, including the Tourbillon Bi-Cylindrique and Villeret Grande Chronographe Email Grande Feu. This content is invaluable for understanding Montblanc's haute horlogerie offerings and brand strategy.
Team PuristSPro joined Montblanc for a special VIP event to meet Mr. Alexander Schmiedt, Managing Director Watches, and also to view the latest Montblanc timepieces that debuted at SIHH 2012.
The event was held at the two Michellin Star restaurant Melisse in Santa Monica, CA.
We arrived early to meet staff members from the Montblanc Beverly Hills and South Coast Plaza boutiques. Also in attendance was a Montblanc haute horolerie specialist to speak to guests about the movements and designs of the watches.
Several timepieces were on display including the MontblancTourbillon Bi-Cylindrique , Montblanc Villeret Grande Chronographe Email Grande Feu, Timewalker, Nicholas Rieussec, and the Grande Chronographe Regulateur.
The Montblanc Twinfly Chronograph from the Timewalker
Collection. The case is 43mm
and is available in stainless steel (strap and bracelet models) and a
DLC coated titanium case.
The Montblanc Star
XXL Chronograph GMT Automatic. The rose gold case is 42mm and a
moderate thickness of 14.70mm.
Montblanc displayed the unique Patinum piece
here:
Mr. Schmiedt is a gracious and engaging host, personally greeting each of the guests and proudly talking about the Montblanc watch collection. I was very impressed with his knowledge and expertise with the movements.
In part 2, we take a closer look at the Tourbillon Bi-Cylindrique.
Regards,
ED-209
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 Tourbillon Bi-Cylindrique from the Montblanc Collection Villeret 1858. Oddly enough, the wat ch was displayed with a mirror to view the caseback, but the caseback was solid. Here's a video of the watch at various angles. In addition to the tourbillon escapement and cyclindrical double balance spring, the watch displays the heures mystérieuses which visually makes the hour and minute hands seem to float above the mirrored dial. Next up is the presentation by Mr. Schmiedt during our 4 course d
During a break in our dinner, Mr. Alexander Schmiedt speaks about Villeret, and explains the innovation of the two cylindrical balance springs and Heures Mystérieuses dial display. And here's a video of the presentation. As Mr. Schmiedt mentions, seeing the movie is one thing, but seeing the actual Tourbillon Heures Mystérieuses in person and handling the watch is completely different. You can see and experience what passion can do to combine passion and innovation. Next up is dinner. Regards, E
Our Montblanc dinner was held inside the 'Olivia Room' of Melisse which provided a spacious and private accommodation . Chef Josiah Citrin and his Chef de Cuisine Ken Takayama prepared a 4 course meal for the guests. During a break in our dinner, speaks about Villeret, and explains the innovation of the two cylindrical balance springs and Heures Mystérieuses dial display. Thanks to the Montblanc staff for their warm hospitality. It was great to meet Mr. Schmiedt and to discover the new pieces of
Great event! Regrets for not being able to make it! Thanks for the posts!
I love the dial on the Piece Unique. Very retro looking, charming. Put a coaxial pusher, and it will be a killing piece. Damn, I am spending more and more time on the Montblanc forum! ;) Best, Nicolas
and I love Melisse! thanks for the coverage!
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