Montblanc’s recent line of vintage-inspired models, including last year’s perpetual calendar, now includes the Heritage Manufacture Pulsograph, an attractively retro mono-pusher chronograph that’s well-priced – considering the Minerva movement within.

First launched in steel with a salmon dial, the chronograph gets a richer colour palette this year with a pink-gold case matched with a tobacco dial for a warm look no doubt inspired by aged watch dials that have faded from black to brown. Despite all the vintage detailing and “tropical” colours, the watch still doesn’t feel overly retro.

The case is well suited to the vintage styling, measuring 40 mm wide thanks to the compact MB M13.21 movement. The calibre is nearly 10 mm smaller than the MB M16.29 movement built for pocket watches that Montblanc has relied on more frequently and results in much larger watches.

The case is entirely polished, which contrasts against the matte dial executed in several finishes: a dark, matte surface on the periphery, followed by the grained chapter ring with applied pink gold markers, and finally the central portion in a sun ray-brushed finish.

In keeping with the vintage look, the dial itself is slightly domed, a subtle detail that is evident in the sloping edges of the recessed counters. The retro style is further enhanced by a domed, “box-type” sapphire crystal.

The arrowhead movement

But as is always the case with Minerva-powered Montblanc watches, the highlight is inside. Visible through the sapphire case back, the M13.21 is essentially a vintage chronograph movement produced from scratch in the modern day, explaining its traditional architecture.

The balance operates at a slow 18,000 beats per hour and is attached to an in-house hairspring adjusted with a swan neck regulator. And the bridges and base plate are made of German silver plated in red gold to match the case. Equally old fashioned is the decoration, which is done by hand to a high standard.

Key facts and price

Montblanc Heritage Manufacture Pulsograph
Ref. 126095

Diameter: 40 mm
Height: 12.65 mm
Material: Pink gold
Water resistance: 50 m

Movement: MB M13.21
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds; chronograph
Frequency: 18,000 beats per hour (2.5  Hz)
Winding: Hand-wound
Power reserve: 55 hours

Strap: Brown alligator with gold pin buckle

Limited edition: 100 pieces
Availability: In boutiques and retailers from June onwards
Price: €36,000

For more information, visit Montblanc.com.