Montblanc Versailles Exo Tourbillon Guide
Reference Guide

Montblanc Versailles Exo Tourbillon Guide

By quattro · Dec 7, 2025 · 20 replies
quattro
WPS member · Montblanc forum
20 replies924 views14 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

In a captivating exploration, quattro shines a spotlight on the Montblanc Star Legacy Suspended Exo Tourbillon Versailles, a timepiece that transcends mere horology to become a wearable work of art. This article delves into the intricate details of a limited edition that celebrates a pivotal moment in French history, inviting readers to appreciate the fusion of haute horlogerie and artisanal craftsmanship. quattro's meticulous presentation, inspired by a fellow collector's discovery, underscores the watch's significance as a testament to Montblanc's commitment to high artistry.

It is jack johnson who, in the comments of my recent thread dedicated to some Patek Philippe hand-engraved references, drew my attention to the existence of this Montblanc Star Legacy Suspended Exo Tourbillon Versailles.



Exo Tourbillon is a a patented construction that positions the balance wheel outside and above the tourbillon cage.



This 8-piece limited Château de Versailles edition celebrates one of France’s most legendary courtly events: the Yew Tree Ball (Bal des Ifs) of 1745 held in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles.



The 18k yellow gold case measures 44.8 x 15.52 mm and is hand-engraved.

A laurel wreath motif encircles the bezel, a reference to Apollo. 

The caseband depicts an allegorical scene after François Lemoyne, showing Louis XV as a Roman emperor guided by Minerva and Mercury, with the Gates of Janus closed, symbolising peace.



The crown is set with a Montblanc-cut diamond weighing approximately 0.11 carat



The dial reinterprets the Hall of Mirrors on the night of the masquerade.

The base plate is 18k white gold, covered with black enamel and decorated with gold paillons to evoke the glint of candlelight on mirrored walls. 

Architectural elements are recreated with opaline Cacholong stone and Sarrancolin marble, the same material sourced for Versailles in the 17th century. 

The parquet floor is rendered in miniature oak marquetry. A sapphire plate etched with chandeliers and masked figures overlays the scene



At 12 o’clock, the time display pays homage to clocks of Louis XIV’s era, using champlevé enamel to create a white dial with blue Roman numerals.

An openworked 18k gold frame tops the display, and skeletonised yellow gold Baroque-style hands indicate the hours and minutes. 

The centre is capped with a detailed Apollo head in gold.



The Suspended Exo Tourbillon is located at six o’clock, with the flange of the aperture fine-decorated with fleur-de-lys motif.



The manual-wind Manufacture calibre MB M16.68 can be seen through the sapphire caseback.



The classic Minerva arrow is featured on the click spring and finishing is executed by hand, with fine anglage and several sharp interior angles.





The watch is delivered in a bespoke presentation box created by Parisian cabinetmaker Elie Bleu and fitted with a Reuge music mechanism playing music by Jean-Philippe Rameau.






credit: Monochrome & @chefs_d_oeuvre_horlogers (two last photos only)


Thanks for reading.

Best, Emmanuel

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
GO
Goh
Dec 7, 2025

Need these few things to align for me to dip my toe to one of these Minerva marvels: in white metals; a bit smaller (and thinner) at around 40/41mm, some spare cash under the mattress 😅 More seriously, thank you Emmanuel, for the write-up of this beauty.

AU
AuHavrePro
Dec 7, 2025

Not something that I think I'd feel compelled to actually wear, but the level of detail and workmanship is tremendous.... Thanks for bringing it to our collective attention, with the help of Mr. Jack Johnson.... Cheers, Filip

JA
jack johnson
Dec 7, 2025

The balance on this watch is absolutely massive at 14.5 mm, the exo tourbillon construction making this possible. And the level of artisan craftsmanship on this watch is so far the best they have done historically. In my view, from the craftsmanship standpoint this is their first try to replicate the level of artistry and detail that go into MB High Artistry pens.

SM
smironov
Dec 7, 2025

Fantastic piece of classic art. I wouldn't wear it, but, at the same time, I like it a lot!

QU
quattro
Dec 7, 2025

I wish you the best for acquiring one of the Minerva marvels! Best, Emmanuel

QU
quattro
Dec 7, 2025

It's obviously a very special piece, which isn't meant to be worn daily. But as you say: tremendous craftsmanship! Best, Emmanuel

Advertisement

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Montblanc forum with 20 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →