Montblanc’s watchmaking expertise goes back to 1858, the year Minerva was founded in Villeret, Switzerland. Since its inception, the Manufacture has been renowned as one of Switzerland’s most revered specialists in chronometric functions for precise time measuring.
Montblanc 1858 Chronograph Tachymeter Limited Edition 100 captures all the spirit of Montblanc’s past in a contemporary vintage way with a 44 mm case made of bronze. Through this alloy, Montblanc combines traditional Swiss artisanal watchmaking with a genuine material from watchmaking history. Particular attention has been paid to researching the perfect alloy of bronze that will evolve with its owner by developing its own unique, uniform and attractive patina over the years.
At the heart of the timepiece lies the traditional manual monopusher chronograph, the MB M16.29, with a column wheel mechanism, horizontal coupling, chronograph bridge in a "V" shape and a large screwed balance wheel with a frequency of 18,000 semi oscillations per hour. Designed in a large "pocket watch" style, the calibre MB M16.29 has been inspired by the original Minerva calibre 17.29, developed for pocket watches and wristwatches in the 1930s. It features hand-made Côtes de Genève stripes, circular graining and red gold-coloured components, offering a look that matches perfectly the bronze alloy and the salmon-coloured dial. As with all the historical calibres, one of the movement’s components is shaped into the form of the Minerva arrow to pay tribute to the Manufacture's heritage.
