Q: What is this "Richemont movement" that I've been hearing so much about lately?
A: The term "Richemont movement" has become increasingly common in watch media. This refers to the "Manufacture Ébauches" produced by Val Fleurier, a subsidiary of the Richemont Group. Currently, some Panerai, Montblanc, IWC, and others use these movements. There are two main trends within their lineup.
・Cartier 1847MC series
Designed by Cartier. Automatic winding. Based on Panerai's Caliber OP XXXIV and the Caliber BM12-1975A (pictured) used in the Baume & Mercier "Baumatic."
・IWC 69000 series
Designed by Val Fleurier, this automatic chronograph features a two-line vertical inset dial. The Montblanc Cal. MB25.10 shown in the photo is based on this, but with a three-line horizontal inset dial.
By sharing the same design, manufacturing costs are kept down and the watch offers higher performance than a typical ébauche. Although the movement is based on a Richemont movement, each manufacturer has made significant modifications to it, so no two are exactly alike.
