Montblanc Heritage Monopusher Chronograph Salmon Dial 42mm Swiss Automatic

From Hodinkee:

Quick Take

At the 2019 SIHH, Montblanc launched a new Heritage collection that covered a range of watches from simple three-handers to GMT models, to chronographs and even a perpetual calendar. What we have here is an update to an existing watch that introduces a beautiful new salmon dial that feels right at home on this model. The Heritage Monopusher Chronograph is a stainless steel watch that sits somewhere between being a dress watch and being a sport watch, and pays homage to the 1940s and ’50s, when Minerva chronographs were in their golden age. Now, this watch doesn’t use a Minerva movement, but that means you get a pretty complicated watch at a relatively affordable price. By using the caliber MB 25.12, which is based on the Sellita SW510, Montblanc can keep the price down without having to compromise in other areas.

If you’re thinking that this watch looks a bit familiar, it’s for good reason. This salmon dial color was used by Montblanc in a chronograph last year, specifically in the limited edition Heritage Spirit Pulsograph. These watches are clearly of a feather, but they occupy two very different places in Montblanc’s product catalog. The new Heritage Monopusher Chronograph offers up the same great looks and the same functionality in a more affordable, non-limited package.

Initial Thoughts

Salmon dials have been having an extended moment, and for good reason. They’re a fantastic alternative to the usual white, black, and blue, but they’re surprisingly easy to wear and they go with a wide range of clothing styles. For a watch like this, salmon is a perfect choice too, completing the watch’s mid-century vibe. Since the collection’s full launch last year, I’ve also really liked the Heritage watch dials. The mix of finishes is fantastic and gives them a ton of richness and depth – I think it’s a big part of why these pieces punch above their weight class across the board. This piece is no exception, and the fact that it’s a slightly larger watch with a big, open dial just gives the finishing and details more space to shine. Those little, applied hour markers are so subtle, but really excellent.

Now, on that topic, this watch is on the larger side. At 42mm x 14.7mm, you’re not going to confuse it for a vintage chronograph, but I do think it wears rather nice on the wrist. The short-ish lugs and balanced case definitely help with that, as does having the lone chronograph pusher set into the crown. This means you don’t have ungainly chronograph pushers off to the side, making the watch feel even larger. All in all, if you’re looking for a chronograph that bridges the modern / vintage divide, this oughta do the trick.

Super nice Montblanc Heritage Monopusher Chronograph with Gorgeous Salmon Dial and Dark Gray Alligator strap!

BRAND: Montblanc

MODEL: Heritage Monopusher Chronograph