MONTBLANC
Star Legacy Suspended Exo Tourbillon Limited Edition 18
THE MONTBLANC STAR Legacy Suspended Exo Tourbillon Limited Edition 18 (€109,000) only does one thing, but it does it exceedingly well. It does tell the time, too, via a classically understated domed dial at 12 o’clock, indicating only hour and minute.
The eye, however, is drawn more to six o’clock, where an enormous balance wheel oscillates above the rotating tourbillon carriage. This is Montblanc’s patented Exo Tourbillon, which separates and lifts the balance wheel – the most compelling part of any mechanical watch, one could argue – outside the tourbillon carriage for unparalleled visibility. The balance wheel is a glorious affair. With a diameter of 14.5mm and beating at a regal 18,000vph, its 18 regulating screws are a testament to meticulousness. It is raised 3.2mm above the aventurine dial, bringing it that much closer to the viewer.
The back of the watch reveals the manually wound, 50-hour calibre MB M16.68, which is quite the sight with its exquisitely finished rhodium-plated plates and bridges, Côtes de Genève striping, circular graining and handchamfered edges. The mirror-polished pawl has been fashioned in the shape of the Minerva arrow, paying homage to Montblanc’s adopted history. The case of the watch is in white gold, and at less than 45mm in diameter and under 13mm thick, it is quite wearable.
The tourbillon remains an addictive complication not because of its debatable chronometric contributions but because of the sheer visual spectacle it provides, and on this watch it is brought into singular focus. Montblanc’s Exo Tourbillon was first seen in
2010 after three years of development. It is just as exciting and satisfying today.
This rendition of the Suspended Exo Tourbillon is limited to only 18 pieces.