Manufacturer: Minerva Year: Circa 1930 Movement No: 1’520’045 Case No: 469’037 Model Name: Il Minervone Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 19/9CH, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle Dimensions: 46mm diameter Signed: Dial signed
Catalogue Essay
The venerable Minerva name, registered in 1887 by the watchmaking company Robert Frères Villeret (founded in 1858 as H. & C. Robert), once adorned the finest timepieces of their diverse portfolio. Although owning multiple marques—Tropic, Ariana, Mercure and more—Robert Frères reserved Minerva for their highest echelon of production.
Come 1908, Minerva commenced crafting exquisite chronographs capable of precision to the hundredth of a second. By the 1920s, Minerva chronographs were industry leaders, prompting the company's 1929 rechristening as “Minerva SA, Villeret.” Throughout the 20th century, Minerva persevered through trials and tribulations, its peerless watchmaking prowess weathering even the Quartz Crisis storm. Richemont Group acquired the manufacture in 2006, thereafter channeling Minerva's expertise into Montblanc timepieces. This remarkable mid-century Minerva exemplifies the manufacture's commanding capabilities. With an imposing 46mm case, the oversized monopusher chronograph clearly targeted technical applications like piloting. It bears the vaunted 19/9CH caliber, a movement introduced for pocket watches in 1909 and later wristwatches, with the 2 o'clock pusher being the inaugural configuration before later integration into the crown.
The original black dial which has aged beautifully into a tropical patina with luminous numerals caters directly to aviation needs—contrasting for daytime legibility, illuminating for nighttime—and remains in an attractive overall condition. The dial is preserved in its original condition, with radium lumes still reactive, resulting in its numeral indices displaying burnt marks over time. This archetypal pilot's watch, proffering breathtaking aesthetics and presence, will enthrall collectors with its impressive dimensions and enduring Minerva significance.