Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Evolution 2008-2011

mkt33 · 2011-08-09T21:06:14Z

Explore the Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec chronograph's evolution from 2008-2011, detailing its in-house calibers and design changes across four generations.

mkt33

WPS member · Montblanc forum

12 replies3675 views5 photos

mkt33 offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of the Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec chronograph's evolution from 2008 to 2011. This article highlights the rapid design and technical advancements Montblanc made in its in-house chronograph caliber, providing valuable context for collectors interested in the model's early history.

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Only three years have passed since the Nicolas Rieussec model line was shown to the public.

The highlight of SIHH 2008 was the surprise introduction of two new inhouse chronograph calibers by Montblanc.

The most intriguing was the manual wind MBR 100. It is an integrated column wheel chronograph movement utilizing a vertical disk clutch.

It made its debut as a limited edition of 300 ( a mix of precious metals only). This is generation one.

Then in 2009, Montblanc very quickly introduced generation two of the manual wound Rieussec. Although the base movement was essentially the same, it was renamed MBR 110 to denote the fact that the chronograph disks were now partially skeletonized. (Limited 25 platinum, open series in rose gold and in stainless steel)

In 2010 we saw Montblanc play with the new trend of incorporating silicon escapements. It released a new Rieussec with these components. I'm going to call this generation 3. Notice the change in dial aesthetics while keeping the skeletonized chrono disks. (Limited 25 pieces in RG)

And of course we have the fourth generation released just this year which continues the aesthetic evolution; the MBR 110 has remained unchanged. Interestingly, MB decided to move away from the skeletonized chronograph disks, instead a much simpler, solid version is now standard. Perhaps MB finally agreed that it was difficult to read the chrono. I think the skeletonized disks were better aesthetically but it ruined the functionality. For me, this shows that MB is dedicated to making the Rieussec as perfect as it can. ( Limited 300 pieces in precious metals)

I hope you all have enjoyed this quick synopsis of the manual wound Rieussec collection,

Best, Mike

This message has been edited by mkt33 on 2011-08-09 21:06:53 This message has been edited by mkt33 on 2011-08-10 05:30:05 This message has been edited by mkt33 on 2011-08-10 19:48:45

Key Points from the Discussion

The manual-wound Rieussec models have distinct production numbers for each generation: 300 for Gen 1, 25 for Gen 2, 25 for Gen 3, and 300 for Gen 4, clarifying the rarity of certain editions.
The Rose Gold and Stainless Steel models of Generation 2 are considered open series, meaning they are continuously produced, unlike the limited precious metal editions.
The post successfully clarified the annual 'new' Rieussec releases, which had previously puzzled collectors regarding the model's consistent evolution.
Collectors express a preference for Generation 2 and 3, particularly appreciating the partially skeletonized dial for its aesthetic appeal and technical integration.
The latest Rieussec version (Gen 4) is seen as having reached a certain maturity in style, indicating a positive reception for its refined design.
The Montblanc Rieussec, despite its high horology status, has not always captured the immediate attention of some collectors, who might overlook it in a retail setting.

The Discussion

KIH

Aug 9, 2011

Somehow, I like the generation 2 best....

... manual winding, and dial looks more spartan. Gen. 3 is fine, too, but for some reason, I like gen. 2 better.... Thanks for the summary, Mike. Ken

Jester

Aug 9, 2011

Great post...

I've always been interested in the Rieussec but was a bit puzzled by the 'new' release at Basel every year... Now your post has clarified everything! Like Ken, I think Gen2 & Gen3 are nice while I have a SLIGHT preference to Gen2. I do think the partially open dial goes well w/ the technical aspect of the movement. Quick question though: You did mention RG & SS models for Gen2 are open series but given the Gen3 & Gen4 variants, does that mean the RG/SS Gen2 are already out of production?

mkt33

Aug 10, 2011

Open series meant that these are being serially produced

at least that is what I gather from the Press releases. So the Rose gold and stainless steel models of Gen 2 are being constantly produced (unlimited) I was surprised because MB usually limits the production of the precious metal pieces but the PR didn't state this. I suspect the production will end if and when MB creates another serial production version of the manual wind Rieussec in SS to replace the Gen 2. Cheers, Mike

mkt33

Aug 10, 2011

One error, I made a mistake on the production numbers

of Gen 4. There are only a total of 300 pieces of varying precious metal pieces (not 1950 as I stated in the post...now corrected) So taking a look. 300 for gen 1 25 for gen 2 25 for gen 3 300 for gen 4 Total of 650 manually wound Rieussecs + the open series have been created since SIHH 2008 I don't know how many of SS or RG versions of the Gen 2 have been manufactured but if the numbers seem to suggest that the annual production for the manual wind is about 300/year. So perhaps the open series

amanico

Aug 9, 2011

LIke Ken, I much prefer the last generation.

Maybe because I'm convinced by the very nice manual movement? Maybe because this last version reached a certain maturity in style, with style? I don't know, but the last Rieussec was an unexpected pleasure, for me. Best, and thanks for a very interesting view, Mike. Nicolas.

playtime

Aug 11, 2011

great post:)

thx for sharing J

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