Sunday, January 20, 2019

Hands-On: The Montblanc 1858 Split Second Chronograph Limited Edition

What makes Montblanc’s chronographs – in particular its higher-end chronographs – so compelling though, is what’s inside of them: in-house movements from Minerva. In case you don’t already know, the historic chronograph specialists are part of Montblanc and produce unbelievable calibers that can compete with the very best in the industry (I’m talking the likes of Patek, Vacheron, etc., here). This particular watch is powered by the MB M16.31 – and what can I say, just look at it! The architecture is impactful, the steel work impressive, and the finishing beautiful. Make sure you don’t miss the arrow-shaped tail on one of the chronograph levers (you can see it in the bottom photo above, just below the split mechanism). 

The M16.31 is 38.4mm across and 8.13mm thick, so it’s not a small movement either (hence the size of the watch overall). It is made of 262 total components, 25 of which are jewels, and the balance beats at 2.5 Hz (18,000 vph), a traditional speed that looks rather slow and charming in these days of mostly 4 Hz movements. The caliber is hand-wound and carries a power reserve of 50 hours too.



from Best Watches For Men http://bit.ly/2W3SXbI