Montblanc

 

I bought my 1858 Tachymeter Chronograph on the 9th of March 2016. Since then, it is, as you can imagine, strongly linked on my wrist. 

I furtively saw it in February 2016, in Paris, during an event, and my first feelings were very positive. 

Then, I received the press file on this watch in October. I was, at that moment, 90% sure I will get one. 

I just had to try it, which was done during the SIHH, which definitely convinced me. 

The questions which I had in mind, my doubts, were about the size, the proportions, and the blue dial. Mechanically, I was already sure it would be my " cup of tea ". 

Indeed, if the size, proportions and color of the dial would not have met my expectation, I  would have passed on this watch, so I really had to be sure. 

1/ The size and the proportions: 

44 mm is big, but, as I already explained in my previous posts, it is justified by the diameter of the movement, the Cal 16.29, which is 38, 4 mm. 

On the other side, I already own some watches which are 44 mm big, such as the JLC Amvox II and the Master Minute Repeater in titanium, and they sit well on my 17 cm wrist, but it also depends on the size of the lugs. My criterion is simple: If they overcome my wrist, then it is a no go. 

Here, no problem at all. They don't overcome, and, important point, it is a very comfortable watch. 

 
The comfort is also due to the fact that the watch is light, despite its generous dimensions, another important point. 

The height is 13, 5 mm, but I had to re read the official datas, here, as it looks slimmer. It is far from being a tuna can. It contributes to the elegance of that watch. 

The lugs are not the thinner I know, but still, not too long, and quite sensual. 

 
And they allow us to remind that these old and generously dimensioned Minerva Chronos were used by Pilots, in the thirties / forties. It is part of the DNA. 

A nice detail, because, with this kind of watches, it is all about details, the satin brushed side case, which deliciously contrasts with the polished top lugs and bezel. 

So, only positive feelings, here. 

2/ The blue of the dial. 

It is very hard to describe, to put in words. 

The problem with blue dials is that the color may lack depth, or life. 

Here, the nuances, the shades are very subtle. Not too dark, not too light. In fact, depending on the light conditions, it may be a bit dark, or light. 

It is, without doubt, very qualitative with its discrete sunburst finish. 

Two wristshots to show you these differences in the blue hue:

 
And a darker shot, on a map of Hamburg.

Fascinating. 

3/ A confirmation: The aesthetical pleasure of a pear shaped crown and co axial mono pusher.

The pear shaped crown is another wink to the past, indeed. But it is also very nice looking, and contributes to the pleasure of winding the movement. And yes, the winding experience is smooth, sensual. Which was another question I had in mind. 

Same for the mono pusher located in the crown. No disgracious pushers in the case. The profile is very pure. And using it is another pleasant experience. 

 
I am very fan of mono pushers chronographs, and even more when the pusher is located in the crown, rather than in the case. 

These are details which have to be lived in the real world. So, if you ever go to a Montblanc Boutique, play with it. 

4/ The movement. 

I already wrote a lot about it, but allow me to share a picture to show its sculptural beauty. 

 
The more I look at it, the more I like it, its details, its decoration, this " Devil's Tail ", and... The large balance wheel, which has a diameter of 14, 5 mm. 

To me, the difference between a nice chronograph and a fine one is all about the movement. 

With such a calibre, I put this Chronograph in the category of the fine ones. 

Conclusion:

This 1858 Tachymeter is blending sensuality, class and strength. The ownership experience is a treat, as it allows you to feel, day after day, all the qualities of this watch. 

Another tip: When I buy a watch, I always try to associate that " event " ( yes, event, because it happens very rarely to me ) to a nice story. 

Here, as Montblanc is historically based in Germany, and more precisely in Hamburg, I wanted to buy my watch from the Hamburg Boutique, as a conclusion of a nice trip. 

Which I did. 

One detail I really don't like on that watch, though: The pin buckle. Not because it is a pin buckle, but because of the too simple way it is designed. I would have preferred something more qualitative, more sensual. We too often have to remind to the brands that a watch is not only a case, a dial and a movement, but also a strap ( here, it is ok ) AND a buckle!

So, here is my first Montblanc. I will not have a huge collection of Montblanc watches, but I have the feeling it will not be my last one. A time only, with a nice movement, and another " in house " chronograph may well be considered. I like what I am discovering a lot!

Best,

Nicolas

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