Review
tudorctin celebrates the arrival of his Montblanc Villeret Grand Feu Chronographe, a birthday present that embodies his fascination with slow oscillators and haute horlogerie. He details the watch's impressive Minerva caliber 16.29, exquisite finishings, and grand feu enamel dial, emphasizing its unique character.
Finally my birthday present arrived more than one month later. You know the saying “Better later than never”.
Let’s start with the box. It weights “only” 10kg. But what’s inside?
Well, another box…
And now let’s open the cover of the wooden box.
Here it is….Montblanc Villeret 1858 Grand Feu Chronographe.
I’ve been always fascinated by these slow oscillators. For me these watches look like American muscle cars with a big V8 aspirated from the 70’. Just open the cuvette and you will sense the Minerva history behind it. The finishings are marvelous, if I close my eyes I can see the angleur spending hours at his desk beveling the bridges. Geneva stripes, circular graining – this watch has the whole package. These watches are “breathing” Haute Horlogerie at its best!
And what about the enamel dial? Magnificent!
And this large balance wheel fitted with custom-made hairspring… They need to make it in house because of the size… And these chatons add a touch of light to this enormous movement.
Yes, it’s big but I’m a big boy too (my wife says it not me)!
I tried both 41mm and 47mm in WG and RG. I also tried the 43.5mm Vintage but the quality is not the same, you can feel it. I was afraid that 47mm watch is too big for my wrist so that I asked my wife about her opinion. She said 47mm RG looks better so I purchased it accordingly.
Ohhh, I wanted badly this Minerva calibre 16.29.
Pros: old school movement with impeccable finishings, enamel dial
Cons: the lugs could be shorter even by 2mm, but nothing is perfect in this world; because of the size it is not for everybody
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.
What can I say, Constantin? The case is superb, the hunter case back is a big plus, the movement is one of the greatest, the enamel is the killing cherry. One of the finest Chronograph. You did very well. Huge congratulations. Nicolas.
Now it's time to start thinking about the next project. Regards, Constantin
PP 5170G but I couldn't resist when I saw this Montblanc. I know, I'm weak… Regards, Constantin
You hit the homerun :) This is best Montblanc out there IMO As my dear friend blomman said envy is not good emotion and shouldn't be used even on salutation purposes on the forum so I'll say I'm green right now :) Congrats congrats congrats Cordially Damjan
I think these lugs good on your wrist...just right imho. Your wife has an excellent eye for proportions! and I've always loved that box/desk valet....one of the most useful applications ever. I am sure it won't sit gathering dust in the closet The V-Bridge The trademark arrow Beautiful! Congrats on such a wonderful Birthday present. Thanks for sharing and looking forward to hearing more about your ownership experience over the next few months/years, Mike
I know, I am stubborn and biased, but that is certainly a " one in the top three " Chronograph... Best, Nicolas.
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