jmpTT
732
Ok, I'll go on record as saying, "I like this one."
Sep 26, 2019,19:48 PM
Conceptually, it's a bit bananas. Take one of the finest chronograph movements in the world and turn it into a knockabout watch. Throw it on an appropriate strap, get the seals checked every year and you can theoretically wear this watch while cannonballing into the lake. You might be ok trying the same thing with the VC Cornes des Vaches, but that case is very much a case belonging to a fine dress watch, whether sculpted in gold, steel or platinum. This brushed case reminds me of those wonderfully utilitarian 1930s stainless steel Pateks, in ways that modern stainless steel Pateks simply do not.
The exact soul of the 1930s cannot be recaptured, no matter how exact the effort. This is a very fine expression of timeless watchmaking, yet it is somehow diminished by the time period in which it was released. A great, overcooked and final hurrah of the neo retro watchmaking fad.
When you factor in the trip with likeminded enthusiasts that is included in the price, I do not think it is a bad deal at all. Though it is all very clever and discomforting like the best targeted advertisements. I recall the Hodinkee editorial team reflecting on the limited edition Panerais that came with exclusive excursions. Meanwhile their commerce team was already deep in talks with Richmont sister-brand Montblanc, right?
This Hodinkee x Montblanc collaboration is so very perfectly loaded and poised. It is an assassin, created to hunt down watch collectors' souls and dollars. For me, it is just easier to appreciate the Montblanc Heritage Pulsographe (salmon dial). That watch feels like an artistic reinterpretation of the 1930s Minerva chronograph. That watch may never be suitable for jumping into lake, but I think it will better stand the test of time. If the product design team does not get coerced into releasing five subtle variations in the next couple of years. You can always arrange a trip to Villeret by yourself...