When the new CEO Jérôme Lambert took over Montblanc in 2013, one of his notable moves was the launch of a new line of watches clearly inspired by the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control — but offered at a more accessible price point, much like what Tudor is to Rolex.
 
This particular piece is part of the Heritage Chronométrie series and was introduced in 2016. It features a clean dial aesthetic, highlighted by the classic 12, 3, and 9 Arabic numerals, and presented in a striking blue dial within a modest 40mm case.
What I love most about this watch is how slim it is — at just 7.65mm thick, it wears beautifully on most wrist sizes, very much in the spirit of the JLC it's inspired by.
 
Inside, it houses the well-finished MB 24.09 automatic movement, offering a 42-hour power reserve and operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour. The rotor carries some tasteful decoration, and what makes this watch stand out is the rigorous Montblanc 500-hour testing it undergoes, designed to ensure solid performance and reliability.
 
At launch, this Mont Blanc Heritage Chronométrie Blue Dial retailed for around USD 2,360, offering great value for a classically designed, well-constructed dress watch. Now discontinued, it has become somewhat collectible — and even more appealing on the pre-owned market. You get the refined dress watch aesthetic of the Master Control at just a fraction of the price.