Montblanc

mkt33
[PuristS]
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From the begining to the end- Creation of the Villeret collection escapement

Arguably the most important component of a watch is the escapement

For many companies the escapement is already incorporated into the purchased ebauche, all the "manufacture" has to do is to encase the movement.  No hard work or know how required.

Complete Unitas ebauche ready for casing

Other companies take it a step further.  They purchase the separate components, finish, and assemble them into completed escapements for their own specific calibers.  Obviously this process takes more resources to accomplish.  That being said, its function may or may not be better than the preassembled ones.  At least these companies have a bit more credibility in their claims of being a manufacture.

Traditional swiss lever escapement components

Pre-packed ETA balance and hairspring assembled

However take a look at what the craftsman in Villeret are doing.  Here are a few photos documenting the steps from the begining to the end.

This is "price premium".  Is it worth paying?  You decide.

Hairspring from proprietary metal.

Cut and bent by hand on site.

Balance wheel cut from stock Glucydur. Finished and tapped by hand on site as well.  Note the escape wheel and pallet fork (the pallet jewels are set at Minerva too separately).  All components are made and finished by the craftsmen employed by Montblanc at the Villeret facility.

Check it out.

EVERY COMPONENT required for a traditional swiss lever escapement is made at Villeret.  The photodocumentation is complete.

But what makes Minerva Villeret a true manufacture is their ability to "put it all together"

Hair spring and balance wheel custom mated

Here is the final result

This is what makes the Villeret collection SPECIAL.  The "heart" of the watch is really hand made. 

Submitted for your consideration.

Enjoy, Mike