A Closer Look at the Montblanc TimeWalker Automatic Chronograph

Montblanc recently made the announcement of their new 2019 models coming out soon and of particular interest are the two new editions of the brand’s TimeWalker chronograph. What really catches our attention is the fact that Montblanc’s design team has taken a collection that features a more progressive and modern look and added a more traditional, if not even vintage aesthetic. The small amendments make a noticeable difference in the overall personality and feeling one gets from the watch. A reduction in its size by 2mm may not seem like a lot but for the wearer and the observer, it changes things up to a great extent. These alterations in the new Montblanc TimeWalker Automatic are designed to appeal to a more broad group of watch enthusiasts, offering something new and the watch is deserving of a closer look and inspection.

What we know so far

The specific details have not yet been made available by Montblanc but there are a few things that we do know about the new edition of the TimeWalker Automatic chronograph. The previous members of the family sported a larger 43mm diameter case with a 15.2mm thickness. The new edition will come in a 41mm case and we can only assume that the thickness will be the same until we’re advised otherwise.

A brief history of Montblanc

The manufacturer of the TimeWalker Automatic began its primary function as a manufacturer or high-end writing pens. Their Meisterstruck M Rollerball was one of the more popular models. Their attention for the finest detail was evidenced in each luxury pen that they produced and it transferred over into their lines of luxury timepieces, which was a secondary endeavor in the evolution of Montblanc as a company and a well-recognized brand. They acquired the Minerva watchmaking factory when the parent Richemont group took over. The TimeWalker is among the most prolific of all their collections.

Other assumptions based on our current knowledge

We also feel confident in assuming that the movement that powers the watch and provides its complicated functions will continue to be the MB 25.07 ETA/Valjoux 7750, or if not this precise movement, something that is quite similar for its automatic chronograph movements. This is the larger part of why the watches have a distinct lean towards thickness. It’s believed that the reduction of the diameter of the Montblanc TimWalker Automatic Chronograph will create a lighter and more comfortable feel on the wrists, making it suitable for a larger segment of the population. Enhancing wearability is an aesthetic alteration of itself.

Additional assumptions

We fully expect the updated version of the TimeWalker will lose the rotating 12-hour bezel that allows the tracking of a second time zone simultaneously, along with modern fonts. We’re told that the new design will offer a stronger classic aesthetic in the traditional chronograph look. The bezel for the new edition will feature a fixed tachymeter bezel and the dial will be in the panda styling along with a choice of white/silver or black main dials and contrasting subdials for high readability. The new watch will have a personality all its own while bearing familial resemblance to its predecessors.

The case will appear more standard with smoothed curves and lugs with satin finish and polished bevels. A solid block of ceramic material will be used to craft the bezel for an impressive detail that we must make note of.

Projections for the new TimeWalkers

Montblanc is of the impression that the adjustments made to the TimeWalker Automatic Chronograph with the smaller size, the slight aesthetic changes that give it a classic and vintage feel and the addition of genuine calf leather racing style straps replacing the bracelets of the elder versions, will make it more appealing to a wider range of spectators.

Release date and pricing

Montblanc has announced that the new and updated Ti meWalker Automatic Chronograph will be made available to the public in an online format by June of 2019. It will be offered for a confirmed price of $3,625 in the United States, which reflects a decrease in price over the 43mm editions. You can find more information upon its release by visiting the brand’s website at montblanc.com. This will be the same web address where the watch will be listed for sale.