Richemont’s Montblanc acquired Minerva in the Swiss canton of Villeret in 2007 and uses its movements in most mechanical watches.
Minerva can trace its roots back to 1858, the year that Montblanc uses in this year’s Chronograph Tachymeter Limited Edition, which won best chronograph at November’s Grand Prix D’Horlogerie in Geneva.
Only 100 pieces are being made of this limited edition, each priced at around £24,000.
The aim of the manual hand-winding watch is to celebrate both traditional Swiss artisanal watchmaking and the rich heritage of Montblanc’s Villeret Manufacture, but also offer a modern feel in the large 44mm stainless steel case.
The blue alligator strap and deep blue dial are as contemporary as its tachymetric scale for measuring speeds over distance is traditional for a chronograph.
