I too have one of these. Mine is from that period of time when the Frey family sold the company - and before they became affiliated with MontBlanc (the early 2000's). Spectacular movement. The original Minerva 13-20 dates from 1923. And these newer versio...
Really hope MB will release something similar to this for Minerva anniversary! And if you decide to let go off this beauty one day, please let me know! I know I am just trying my luck.
although I must admit that the earlier produced Villeret calibers like yours are even better finished than the more recent ones like mine. as I own the 16.29 (snake dial chrono) and the 16.32 (tachydate) from the Villeret collection I have compared a lot ...
By: jrwong23 (aka watchthebin) : July 24th, 2020-06:39
At least when they were very exclusive in the Collection Villeret days. Now with so many deployed into the 1858 series , I have my doubts. Will be good if someone can compare under a loupe the 13.21s in the older Villeret collection vs the current 13.21s ...
All watches from the Montblanc Villeret 1858 Collection (now discontinuedI) carry on the backside "Fait main a Villeret" (handmade in Villeret). The "newer" models with the same calibers carry "Swiss made". I once heard the rumor that some pieces of the c...
But the strategy under the former CEO Mr. Bethge was to produce 100% in Villeret (fait main) and to invent new calibers in a HC category instead of scaling up existing calibers. They had the 1-8-58 approach for watches, meaning 1 version in platinum, 8 in...
but my guess is that they are now not solely made in Villeret (but maybe parts are supplied from third parties?) I really don't know for 100%; but having been to Villeret twice I am very sure that this small group of watchmakers cannot produce these quant...
Then we need to find someone who have the more recent models featuring the 13.21. With regards to the other larger Minerva calibres, I have no comments as I have nothing to compare against. Maybe Winston will know more?
By: jrwong23 (aka watchthebin) : May 22nd, 2020-06:13
I didn’t realise earlier vs later periods Minerva calibres from Villeret have different finishing levels. I assumed they are the same. Will try to check out next time