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A hidden gem not seen in the display case

mkt33
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While I was at Montblanc’s Madison Ave. Boutique, Kevin (the boutique manager), pulled out a piece held in reserve for a VIP client.   This particular customer wanted a unique watch with a specific edition number to help her husband celebrate a special occasion.  

The unveiling.   The outer box is nicely designed  

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The Timewalker box for this edition is no longer made of paper and faux leather.You can tell this is a newer model given the schematic of the Cal. LL100 decorating the top.   It is composed of lacquered wood, ebony in color. Also a nice stainless steel placard on top.

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Finally Montblanc’s presentation and packaging is on par with its competitors.  

Once the box is open…. The new Timewalker Twinfly GreyTech was the model chosen by Kevin for his VIP client.  

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Seeing and holding the GreyTech is a much different experience than the press release pictures would suggest.

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Overall in the most important aspects, this is the exact same watch which was released 2 years ago.  The same case shape and dimensions, the same central chronograph register and flyback complication display on the dial, and the same mechanical movement.   Mostly the changes were cosmetic:a grey colored dial, plating the movement’s bridges with rhodium…the only real main difference is a switch to a titanium metal case.  

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From a cynical watch collector’s viewpoint, besides a slight difference in weight and appearance, should be no big achievement.  

However, these changes DO make the GreyTech a very unique version of the Twinfly. Take a look, side by side with the other Twinflys available at the boutique.  

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Overall the weight difference between using stainless steel and titanium is hardly noticeable. But it is the casework that makes me a believer in this model.   The case sides are satinized while the lugs are bead blasted to achieve a polished shine. The bezel is matt grey. 

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It looks really cool on the wrist with all the various shades of greys, especially the lugs which scintillate in the light.   One of my concerns from looking over the GreyTech’s press release picture was that the date could not be read easily.  I am wrong. There is enough contrast between the black font and the grey datewheel background.  

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Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by my encounter with this limited edition and it just goes to show that even the tired and cynical watch enthusiast should never discount the smallest changes.  Sometimes these small changes make all the difference in the world. 

 

Best, Mike

Comments:
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foversta April 15th, 2013-14:53
I love this watch! I much prefer the in-house movement in this context than in a Rieussec. The harmony of colours is flawless. Thanks for your post Mike! Fx
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mkt33 April 16th, 2013-07:54
Can I ask why you feel this way with the LL100 and differently with the Rieussec? I loved your wrist shot...that was why I was so excited when Kevin went back to his office and emerged with this surprise. Best, Mike
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Mostel April 15th, 2013-18:22
Small details make HUGE differences This is really cool. Not a big MB guy, but this is a very interesting new accomplishment. The cutouts for the date wheel create much visual fascination--are the numerals 3d? they look 'engraved'. Really nice. I like it very much.
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mkt33 April 16th, 2013-07:55
The thick inking provides some textural contrast and I think that is why the date is more visible. Best, Mike
nycWIS April 15th, 2013-20:48
It's Not The Greytech.... But I can't wait for my "standard" Twinfly to be delivered on Wednesday, thus ending my hiatus from watch collecting. Plus my Rieussec will have another chrono to keep it company ;-) Best, Mitch
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mkt33 April 16th, 2013-07:56
Congrats Mitch! I'd love a "family portrait" when the new baby arrives Warmest, Mike
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MTF April 15th, 2013-21:30
Montblanc has found their place As suppliers of high quality for the medium to high budget. For the ultra-high budget, they reserve the Villeret range that can also be 'customised' like a good suit from Saville Row. The technology and new post-graduates from Villeret Research Institure ... 
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mkt33 April 16th, 2013-08:00
Yes, a watch for every budget... I think there are some really good models throughout the price spectrum. As a Purist, I still like the Villeret series the most... Best, Mike ... 
nycWIS April 16th, 2013-10:16
Doing it right... Indeed MB IMHO has done everything right in its expansion into the "serious" watch market. FWIW, though Cartier has been involved with watches for eons, its recent move into relatively affordable watches combining high style with unique movements has also... 
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Tick Talk April 17th, 2013-06:36
You mean the Institute Minerva? Absolutely agree with your sentiments, and hope we don't forget the historical and horological contribution of Minerva!
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AndrewD
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Montblanc TimeWalker Twinfly Black Titanium LE

AndrewD
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This limited edition of 300 pieces caught my eye at a MB Boutique and I thought I would share some photos with you. This is an automatic chronograph with the flyback feature on both the central chrono seconds and minute hands. The minute counter hand is short and has its own dedicated minute track. Circles within circles which, combined with the dial decoration and layers, adds a lot of interest on the wrist despite the monochromatic appearance of the watch.


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