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GONE IN 60 SECONDS: Montblanc channels the spirit of racing with the Timewalker Chronograph Automatic GONE IN 60 SECONDS: Montblanc channels the spirit of racing with the Timewalker Chronograph Automatic

GONE IN 60 SECONDS: Montblanc channels the spirit of racing with the Timewalker Chronograph Automatic

Felix Scholz

Walking into Montblanc’s revamped SIHH booth, it didn’t take long to work out what the overarching theme of 2017 would be. If the deconstructed racing chronograph suspended from the ceiling wasn’t enough of a clue, the booth staff in stark white racing firesuits certainly gave the game away. Montblanc’s off to the races, and in pole position is an aggressively updated Timewalker.

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The Timewalker is one of Montblanc’s most successful ranges and, over the years, the distinctive Arabic numerals, modern hand design and sculptural, cut-away lugs have become emblematic for the brand. Recently though, the pioneering model has been somewhat overshadowed by new and exciting heritage models. Not any more.

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The reimagined Timewalker collection is the brainchild of Davide Cerrato, Managing Director of Montblanc’s watch division (and former Creative Director at Tudor), and is released as a fully formed, mature sports collection comprising everything from simple three-handed options to more complicated offerings like this chronograph. And while the key details like the stylised hands, numerals and cut-out lugs are still there, the overall aesthetic is much more restrained, and with the subtlest touch of vintage (like the tip of the seconds hand and clever rubber racing-style strap). But it’s the glossy ceramic bezel that really stands out, along with the sporty dial design and brushed tool-like case finish. We were a little surprised at the size of the pushers and crown – both are refreshingly petite, and some might find them a touch too small. Still, we’re sure everyone will get behind the Timewalker’s decidedly reasonable pricing.

Montblanc Timewalker Chronograph Automatic Australian pricing

The Montblanc Timewalker Chronograph Automatic has a retail price of $5680.