n Saturday, 1st September 1821, Nicolas Rieussec (1781-1866) first tested his timekeeping invention at the horse races on the Champ-de-Mars in Paris. His device used a fixed nib that would place a drop of ink on two rotating counters (one for the minutes, the other for the seconds) each time a horse crossed the finish line.

Rieussec was not only the sixth royal watchmaker to the King of France; he was also a businessman with an eye for opportunity. Horse races in Paris at this time were big business, and being able to scientifically record the winners would be a gamechanger for the sport. His invention was a success and a few weeks later, he presented it to the Academy of Sciences in Paris, whose members named it a “chronograph,” taken from the Greek words chronos (time) and graphein (to write).

The Montblanc Star Legacy Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph Limited Edition 821 takes Rieussec’s 1821 chronograph as its design inspiration. The watch’s two chronograph sub-dials feature rotating domed discs. Between these discs sits a horizontally oriented applied bridge that acts as a pointer, a configuration that accurately recreates the layout of Rieussec’s original chronograph of 1821.

Visible through the sapphire caseback, the MB R200 calibre includes a precise monopusher chronograph, as well as full dual-time functionality with a Day & Night indication and date complication. The movement offers automatic winding of dual barrels for a full 72 hours of power reserve. It is a uniquely symmetrical movement with elegantly curvaceous bridges supporting the gear train and escapement, each bridge adorned with visible pivot jewels, large blued screws and Geneva striping.

The fully polished stainless steel case measures 43mm across. The curving lugs feature a “stepped” architecture, and an onion crown adds a traditional touch harkening back to the era of pocket watches. A satinated bezel completes the visage and allows the elaborate dial to take centre stage.

Price: CHF 7,900

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