VIDEO: The best Montblanc watches of SIHH 2018

Felix Scholz

The more distance and time I’ve had to reflect on SIHH 2018, the more I’m inclined to think that the calibre of the exhibiting collections was – overall – very high. The very top end of town was well represented but of more interest to me (and I suspect a lot of you reading this), the offerings at the less stratospheric price points were plentiful, interesting and attractive. Case in point – Montblanc.

Montblanc’s hero collections were the greatly expanded and slightly re-imagined 1858 collection, and the classically styled Star Legacy, both full of the sort of value-packed, thoughtful watches that Montblanc have become synonymous with lately. But really, for me it was the 1858 that was the star of the line-up, what with their rugged charms and easy wrist appeal. Make sure to watch the video for a full overview, but to my mind, these three regular production 1858 watches are the ones to watch.

Montblanc 1858 Geosphere

With its twin, rotating hemispheres and ceramic compass bezel this twin-time watch was one of Montblanc’s real talking points. It’s offered in a regular production steel model or a limited bronze case, bund strap combo that’s Reinhold Messner levels of awesome.

Montblanc 1858 Chronograph

Classic, military-inspired styling, balanced bi-compax layout with pleasantly large registers makes the 1858 Chronograph a real looker. The glassbox sapphire, cathedral hands and retro-styled pushers are just the icing on the cake.

Montblanc 1858 Automatic

While this 40mm auto may lack the complication of its brethren, it’s still a strong look for a daily wearer. Clean, crisp dial (in black or champagne),  bronze bezel and crown and some exceptionally solid strap options (and – just like the chrono – no date), makes these options worthy of your consideration.