The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →The Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Automatic is a distinctive chronograph concept, but the name covers more than one reference. The best-documented current US example is the Star Legacy Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph 43 mm, reference MB129764. Montblanc specifies an automatic manufacture movement, a monopusher chronograph with rotating counters, dual time with day/night indication, and a date display. Those details describe the manufacturer’s product, not a hands-on assessment of a particular watch.
Which Nicolas Rieussec Automatic is this review about?
“Nicolas Rieussec Automatic” is a family-level description, not a unique reference. This review focuses on the current US-listed Star Legacy Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph 43 mm, reference MB129764, because Montblanc publishes a detailed specification for it. An earlier Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph Automatic, reference 102336, also appears in a retailer listing; its specifications should not be assumed to match MB129764. Montblanc’s MB129764 product page and Tourneau’s 102336 listing identify separate references.
What stands out about the design and layout?
Montblanc describes MB129764 as a 43 mm stainless-steel watch with a silver-white Clou de Paris dial, blue indexes and chronograph counters, and a blue textile strap. Its two rotating chronograph counters are read against fixed pointers, an arrangement that gives the chronograph display a different visual rhythm from conventional hands moving around a fixed scale. The specification establishes the layout; it does not establish how easy the dial is to read in everyday use.
What does the MB R200 movement do?
The watch uses Montblanc manufacture automatic calibre MB R200. Montblanc’s 2019 Haute Horlogerie service guide describes a rotor, two barrels, and a column-wheel chronograph control, with a stated running time of 72 hours and a balance frequency of 28,000 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). These are manufacturer-published figures, not independent performance measurements. The guide notes: “The MB R200 calibre features a rotor fitted with a heavy metal weight to maximise its winding efficiency.” Montblanc’s 2019 service guide explains the calibre’s construction and functions.
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- Montblanc Timewalker Automatic White Dial Brown Leather Men's Watch 110340
Chronograph, dual time, and date
- Monopusher chronograph: Montblanc lists a single-pusher chronograph function. The service guide describes the two rotating counters and their fixed pointers.
- Second time zone: A separate time-zone indication is paired with a day/night window, helping distinguish whether it is day or night in the other zone.
- Date: The date appears in a separate aperture and is displayed by a disc.
Dimensions, water resistance, and price
| Specification | MB129764 |
|---|---|
| Case diameter | 43 mm, as stated by Montblanc on its product page accessed in 2026 |
| Case height | 15.01 mm, as stated by Montblanc on its product page accessed in 2026 |
| Water resistance | 5 bar / 50 metres, as stated by Montblanc; this is a specification, not a recommendation for a particular water activity |
| US listed price | $9,200 on Montblanc’s US product page accessed in 2026; price is volatile |
| Online availability | Marked “Sold Out Online” on Montblanc’s US page accessed in 2026; the page offers boutique availability checks |
These figures are manufacturer specifications for MB129764, not measurements of a reviewed specimen. Price and availability apply to the US page at the time it was accessed and may change. Check the product page or a Montblanc boutique for current status.
Why is it called Nicolas Rieussec?
Montblanc says the watch pays tribute to the inking chronograph invention first tested by Nicolas Rieussec in Paris in 1821 and validated by the Académie des Sciences. That historical account is Montblanc’s framing of the collection; it is not an independently established finding here. The official MB129764 product page sets out the brand’s tribute.
Rank #2
- Montblanc Star Legacy Automatic Silver Dial Men's Watch 116508
What can—and can’t—be concluded from the published specifications?
MB129764’s appeal on paper is clear: a manufacture automatic chronograph with a monopusher control, an unusual rotating-counter display, and useful additional indications for a second time zone and date. The stated 43 mm diameter and 15.01 mm height are substantial dimensions to weigh against your fit preferences. Specifications alone cannot establish wrist comfort, legibility, timekeeping accuracy, reliability, or the condition of an individual watch. For a pre-owned example, confirm the exact reference, condition, warranty, service history, and access to servicing before comparing prices.
Montblanc’s catalogue also includes other Nicolas Rieussec variants, including a distinct 821-piece limited edition. Its existence is not a reason to transfer MB129764’s specifications or availability to another reference. Montblanc’s limited-edition product page identifies that separate variant.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Stainless steel bracelet watch with brushed titanium bezel and anthracite dial featuring date window at six o'clock and 24-city time zones displayed around the flange
- 42 mm stainless steel case with anti-reflective sapphire dial window
- Swiss automatic movement with analog display
- Stainless steel band with deployant-clasp-with-push-button closure
- Water resistant to 30 m (99 ft): In general, withstands splashes or brief immersion in water, but not suitable for swimming
Rank #4
- Brand Cufflinks Montblanc
- Reference: 112896
- Cufflinks 112896 brand Montblanc
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
