Words: Violet
Meet Montblanc, one of the most iconic brands in men’s luxury accessories today. Owned by the Richemont Group (the same family as Cartier, IWC, and Panera) Montblanc is identifiable through it’s iconic snowflake logo, resembling the peak of the Montblanc mountain in the Alps, it can be found in the pocket and grasp of some of the world’s most stylish men. Jose Mourinho, for example, Manager to Chelsea Football Club is often seen signing autographs with his Montblanc pen; subtle and discreet to the untrained eye, but a touch of class to those who are in the know.
So Montblanc have established themselves in luxury leather goods, pens and eyewear since 1906, but does this give them the right to compete with professional watchmakers in a field to which they are relatively inexperienced? It strikes me as not dissimilar to purchasing a dishwasher with the prancing pony of Ferrari on the front of it.
But, before we write off Montblanc’s watchmaking, the DLC Chronograph has a few things to shout about. It’s 44mm case makes it chunky and sporty, masculine without becoming offensive. It’s automatic 4810/ 501 Montblanc movement provides a 46 hour power reserve and as expected, the leather craftsmanship on the strap is a work of art, alongside it’s robust folding steel clasp gives it a solid feel when wrist-born! Furthermore the price tag – £3,990 – is considerably less than a Rolex, instead it competes with expensive Tag Heuer’s, and mid ranged Omega’s and Breitlings. But the man who wears a DLC Chronograph is not interested in Tag Heuer, Omega or Breitling. He appreciates the essence of Montblanc, it’s origins in the mountains, and the fact that you can abuse this watch all day long in the outdoors, plunge it 200m underwater and at the end of the day, scrub the mud off the spectacular crocodile leather strap and stroll through a smart London bar, unphased by the change in scenery. Wristwatches can be judged the same way as cars, clothes and jewellery. Not only by their prestige, but how they make you feel; and we feel smart, well dressed, but ever ready to do something a little wild on the way home from the party with the Montblanc Sport DLC Chronograph.
From £3,990 available from montblanc.com
By The Watch Man London thewatchmanlondon
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