Montblanc has unveiled the "Montblanc 1858 Monopoussoir Chronograph Origins Limited Edition 100," a new release that pays tribute to the Minerva timepieces born in the 1930s. This monopoussoir chronograph, powered by the MB M16.29 caliber, features a vintage design that faithfully inherits elements from the original models, enhanced with exquisite decorative details throughout. It is offered in a limited edition of 100 pieces.

In homage to the origins of Montblanc's manufacture, the new "Montblanc 1858 Monopoussoir Chronograph Origins Limited Edition 100" is released in a limited run of 100 pieces, inspired by the 46mm Minerva military monopoussoir chronographs from the 1930s.

This timepiece transcends mere re-edition; it retains key elements of the original while adding a vintage-inspired twist. Notable features include a 46mm case crafted from a special bronze alloy, an iconic "officer's" case back, a vintage black dial with beige Super-LumiNova®, and a harmonious brown Sfumato alligator strap.

The case is made from a special bronze alloy that develops a captivating patina over time, evoking the feel of vintage exploration tools. Similar to traditional pocket watches, it features an "officer's" case back to protect the movement, adorned with distinctive engravings on both the exterior and interior.

The exterior engraving depicts the head of Minerva, the Roman goddess, while the interior bears the inscription: "Ré-édition du chronographe militaire Minerva des années 1930 doté d’un calibre fait main dans la pure tradition horlogère suisse" (A re-edition of the 1930s Minerva military chronograph with a handmade caliber in the purest Swiss watchmaking tradition).

The interior decoration is achieved through a 3D rendering of the Minerva statue, laser-engraved with matte and polished finishes to create a photographic depth and realism. The final color is determined by the oxidation process inherent in laser engraving. Montblanc is among the most advanced Swiss maisons to employ this cutting-edge technology on such a large surface, aligning with the brand's spirit of exploration.

Opening the "officer's" case back reveals the beauty of the Manufacture Monopoussoir Chronograph Caliber MB M16.29, a recreation of the Minerva chronograph calibers dating back to the early 20th century. The movement's craftsmanship is particularly noteworthy. The main plate and bridges are finished in untreated German silver, a traditional high-end material used in Minerva movements, offering a subtle, exquisite yellowish hue distinct from typical rhodium plating. Furthermore, traditional finishes such as Côtes de Genève, anglage, circular graining, and bevelling are meticulously applied, all executed consistently at the Montblanc manufacture in Villeret.

Like the original chronograph caliber, the MB M16.29 features the iconic V-shaped bridge patented in 1912, a column wheel, horizontal coupling, and a traditional frequency of 18,000 A/h. As a tribute to the historic movement, the tip of the chronograph pusher is adorned with the Minerva arrow.

The black dial features contrasting rose gold-colored cathedral hands and numerals coated with beige Super-LumiNova® for enhanced legibility in low light. Luminescent touches on the Arabic numerals, hour, and minute hands further improve readability.

The dial is symmetrically arranged with the historic Montblanc logo at 12 o'clock and the Minerva logo, reminiscent of the original model, at 6 o'clock. Every detail, including the large small seconds and minute chronograph bi-compax counters and the railway minute track, faithfully reproduces the original design.

This model is paired with a new vintage-style brown Sfumato alligator strap featuring beige stitching and is offered in a limited edition of 100 pieces.