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Minerva Phoebus "Serie Limitee" C722 Chronograph

US$9,250.00

Description

This is the Minerva Phoebus Chronograph reference C722-6C. Founded in 1858 in Villeret, Minerva by Charles and Hyppolite Robert, the brand that was originally named “H & C Robert” registered the “Minerva” trademark in 1886 among others. Originally manufacturing pocket watches, the first in-house chronograph movement began in 1908 and were housed in Minerva-branded chronographs, leading to the re-branding of the company to “Minerva SA, Villeret” in 1929. After several ownership changes, Minerva was finally bought over in 2006 by Richemont where it is now producing movements for Montblanc.

The aforementioned Phoebus Chronograph was introduced in the early 2000s prior to the Richemont ownership. Part of a limited edition of 80 watches with another 80 featuring a white dial, the Phoebus chronograph is particularly interesting as the limited series was based on NOS Valjoux 72 movements purchased by the brand during the 1960s. Featuring a glossy black dial with applied yellow gold indices, the Phoebus stands out with the engraved laurel-leaf decoration that borders the case. Running on the previously mentioned workhorse Valjoux 72, the C722 is among the last notable references prior to the brand’s sale to Richemont and remains largely under the radar.

While Minerva may not be among the biggest household names, its history as as one of the longest running movement makers renders it an essential part of horological history. Since the introduction of its first chronograph movement more than a century ago, the brand remains highly relevant through the Montblanc brand and continues to be one of the finest movement makers in the modern era and the Phoebus chronograph represents an interesting part of the brand’s history.

Condition

This Minerva Phoebus Chronograph is in good overall condition with the caseback engravings still crisp and clear. There are several hairlines on the caseback and bezel from prior wear, with a noticeable deep hairline on the bezel near the 6 and another on the back of the bottom right lug. The crystal has no wear and the dial remains clean with no signs of age. It comes with its original Minerva 18k gold buckle as well as the original box and undated warranty with the limited edition number. The watch is in full working order.