Montblanc pays tribute to a pivotal moment in watchmaking history with the Star Legacy Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph Limited Edition 100, a finely crafted timepiece inspired by Nicolas Rieussec’s invention of the inking chronograph in 1821.
The story dates back to September 1, 1821, when French watchmaker Nicolas Rieussec tested his timekeeping device at a horse race in Paris. Using a fixed nib that placed drops of ink onto rotating counters, the device recorded the precise times horses crossed the finish line—effectively “writing time.” Weeks later, Rieussec presented the invention to the Academy of Sciences in Paris, where it was named a “chronograph,” combining the Greek words chronos, meaning time, and graphein, meaning to write.
Limited to just 100 pieces, the new timepiece combines a monopusher chronograph with a 24-hour dual-time complication and date, housed in a fully polished Au 750 rose gold 43mm case.
A Dial That Reveals History
The watch’s luminescent dial incorporates elements inspired by Rieussec’s archival documents, including handwritten excerpts from the Academy’s approval document, the silhouette of the Academy, a blueprint of the original ink hand, and Rieussec’s signature.
Additional historical references appear around the rose gold-colored flange, including “Compteur de Mr Rieussec,” the official name of his device, and the inscription “Paris, le 15 Octobre 1821,” marking the date and location of the patent filing.
Its distinctive chronograph display features two rotating domed discs—a 60-second counter at 8 o’clock and a 30-minute totalizer at 4 o’clock—separated by a blued-steel pointer, echoing the layout of Rieussec’s original invention. A dual-time display, day-and-night indicator, and date aperture further enhance the watch’s functionality.
Powered By Montblanc’s In-House Calibre
At its heart is the Calibre MB R200, an automatically winding in-house movement combining the monopusher chronograph and dual-time functions. Twin barrels provide up to 72 hours of power reserve.
Visible through the sapphire caseback, the movement features Geneva striping, blued screws, visible pivot jewels, and a skeletonized rotor bearing the Montblanc emblem of 1913 and Grain d’orge engraving.
Completing the historical tribute is a black calf leather strap with tonal stitching and a pointed profile inspired by a fountain pen nib. Its underside features portions of an 1821 map of Paris, highlighting locations connected to Rieussec and the historic horse race where his invention was first tested.
Through the Star Legacy Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph Limited Edition 100, Montblanc brings together horological innovation, archival storytelling, and fine craftsmanship in a timepiece designed as a tribute to the origins of the chronograph.
