While best known for their impressive reputation in the arena of making luxurious accessories such as various leather goods, keychains, and most importantly writing instruments such as pens, Montblanc have also competed in the world of watchmaking. However, since their acquisition of Minerva in 2006, their experience in watchmaking isn’t limited to what they learned themselves. Indeed, by acquiring Minerva they took control of one of watchmaking’s most historic movement manufacturers. Founded in 1858, Minerva are one of the few manufactures who made chronograph movements, amongst other types of movements. Inspired by their iconic mid-century chronographs, the example that we have here is the Minerva Monopusher Chronograph ref. 133442, which is #1 in the 30 piece limited edition. Made from steel and boasting a contemporarily-sized 42mm profile, this timepiece is fitted with a white dial designed to emulate the chronograph dials often found in 1940s pocket watches with its creamy yellow subdials, blue scales, and large Arabic numerals. Powered by the manual-wind Minerva cal. M13.21 movement, which is on display behind its exhibition caseback, this timepiece boasts Minerva’s historical prowess while also demonstrating Montblanc’s impressive craftsmanship and eye for design.

The watch is in overall near-mint condition. The steel case and case back show light signs of wear. The dial and hands are like new. The watch is fitted with a black fabric strap and steel deployant clasp, both in near-mint condition. Comes complete with box and papers.

Combining Montblanc's eye for design with Minerva's rich horological heritage, this Monopusher Chronograph perfectly demonstrates why the watchmaking community was lucky that Montblanc acquired the historic movement maker.