One leading executive is now relishing in the glory of owning a Montblanc timepiece, crafted by the artisan watchmakers in Switzerland.
BWX Managing Director Asia Pacific Stephen Brown is The CEO Magazine’s winner of the A$9,600 Montblanc 1858 Geosphere timepiece.
Described as being an “unforgettable experience”, the businessman finally got his hands on the highly anticipated luxury giveaway at the watchmaker’s Australian boutique.
The Sydney autumn air was crisp and fresh, just as if he were in Villeret – the home of Montblanc.
“I love the brand, from their pioneering spirit heritage to the refined and elegant quality of their products,” Stephen tells The CEO Magazine. “Wearing Montblanc makes me feel special.”
Inspired by the professional Minerva watches of the 1920s and 30s, which were created for military use and exploration, the Montblanc 1858 Geosphere is an extraordinary piece.
Reinterpreting the historical significance while embracing the modern trend of returning to nature, the Geosphere is dedicated to the Seven Summits mountaineering challenge.
While it’s idyllic for mountaineering adventures, the timepiece represents the determination required to not only conquer the world’s highest peaks, but also the height of business challenges.
And when it’s inspiration the BWX director is after, he has one place he always turns.
“Every issue of The CEO Magazine has a feature on the most incredibly talented and successful executives from many different industries and geographies with truly inspiring stories to share,” Stephen shares. “I learn something new from every edition.”
Montblanc timepieces 2021
With more than 165 years of watchmaking expertise behind them, Montblanc thrives on linking the past and present through timeless designs, style and technical innovation.
Inspired by the era of exploration and military use, the Swiss manufacturer has released a Geosphere Limited Edition 1858 – a nod to the incredible precision, durability and accuracy of the maison’s early creations.
Unveiled during Watches and Wonders 2021, the limited edition was restricted to just 1858 pieces, and it’s already sold out.
Another exclusive release is the Monopusher Chronograph Origins Limited Edition 100, available from May. Boasting a 1930s movement that was originally intended for a pocket watch, the innovation is far ahead of its time. To honour the chronograph, the limited edition features a 46-millimetre case made of a special bronze alloy, a vintage-style black dial with beige elements and a distinctive officer’s caseback, which opens to reveal the movement inside and an exquisite engraving of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom.
For connoisseurs of vintage design, the Split Second Chronograph Limited Edition 18 made from exclusive 18-karat gold alloy is breathtaking. A charming example of vintage aesthetic, the watch will be available from May 2021.
“Occasionally I might wear it for no reason other than to enjoy it.” – Stephen Brown
Paying homage to the Minerva calibre No. 48, the Pythagore Small Second Limited Edition 148 is exceptionally meticulous. Montblanc engineers developed the Manufacture Calibre MB M14.08 – a 31.6-millimetre movement designed to fit in a modern case with enough room to apply the golden pentagon. The rare creation will be available from June 2021.
Demonstrating a true mastery of artisanal aesthetic, the Suspended Exo Tourbillon Limited Edition 18 will be the envy of watch aficionados when it’s released in May. Developed entirely in-house, the complication took three years to finesse. The timepiece structure alone allows for a large balance wheel while eliminating the need to increase the size of the movement or case. A bridge with a single curved stainless-steel arm allows the balance wheel to float 3.2 millimetres above the dial.
Whether you’re someone who loves timeless classics for everyday practicality or you’re an avid chronograph collector with a penchant for rare and exquisite pieces, the finest timepieces are simply those that are truly appreciated.
“I will wear my Montblanc timepiece for business and any special social engagement,” Stephen says. “Occasionally I might wear it for no reason other than to enjoy it.
