From concept to reality – The Monbrey MB2

For this review, we are going to do things a bit different. Not only because we already had a good look of the Monbrey MB2 here: https://www.robbieandwatches.co.uk/single-post/what-is-it-about-pink-dials-the-monbrey-mb2-series-kenky%C5%AB-blossom-pink but because the main idea is to compare that prototype to the final version.

This is very lucky for me because not only I managed to see the initial drawings/conception of the MB2, but also the evolution of the watch until his final version. We now have the indigo Purple for review, and it feels great to complete the circle.

To be completely honest, the prototype was already a good watch, so the differences are minor, but that is why we are all here, for the minutia.

As I mentioned, we are not going to go through the same specification exercise, instead we will be focusing on the evolution of the MB2 and why this is a keeper. Let’s begin.

The final version

For the final version we managed to get the Indigo Purple version which differs from the Blossom Pink variant.  There are key differences apart from the colour such as the dial which now has an aventurine finish instead of a mother of pearl. The rest of the watch is the same in terms of shape and dimensions.

The Indigo Purple does feel quite different, is more subdue, a bit more elegant than the previous variant. We do miss the pattern of the dial from the pink version which can also be found on the Olive Green and Ice Blue variants, but these new finishings does make the watch more versatile, easier to pull, perhaps even more GADA.

One of the main reasons why I’ve decided to have a different version than the prototype was because it would allow me to understand if the design can cope with changes. Usually when a design is good, you could potentially play with colours but when the design is timeless, well, it will age with grace just like I believe the MB2 will do.

The main improvements

As we stated, the original prototype was already very good and nothing more was needed in my opinion, but that did not stop the team from doing it. The final version of the M2B is the classic example of going from 1080 HD to 4K resolution, perhaps that’s why we couldn’t spot any major gaps on the prototype, you wouldn’t know what to look for until you see the final product.

One of the main improvements was the end links, they now attached flawlessly, the tolerances are quite high. Again, it was not noticeable on the Pink Blossom because I did not have this new watch with me, but now that I compare the two, its impossible to unsee it.

The logo is has also changed, it is more refined, and the lettering looks sharper, this again is a minor detail, but these small incremental changes do make a difference, let’s not forget that the MB2 is in a very low-price bracket and they still managed to improve it.

The bracelet feels less sharp which is a good thing, this gives me also the confidence that more time was spent in terms on finishing with the watch. It makes the overall experience more luxurious and comfortable. The lights still plays the same way with the links, so nothing to worry about here and yes, the second soft leather strap is still included, versatility is assured.

The accuracy was something that Monbrey got right from the start, both watches are running quite well, not inside COSC numbers but keeping the time was not an issue for both watches. Again, this is a great vote of confidence on the brand because they will try their best to protect their name and clientele.

Which one will I go for?

For us there aren’t many changes between the watches to say that we will take the final version over the prototype. Which means that the colour and style would be the defining factor, I would also put more weight in terms of versatility. In this last category, the Indigo purple edges the Pink Blossom because it can be a quiet elegant piece and also a sporty at the same time, it blends better, it goes well with a nylon, leather or even a silicone strap.

That said, it would be hard to forget the mother of pearl shine crossed with the patters of the Blossom Pink, it is a perfect watch for winter and for summer.

So there you have it watches with lots in common that could easily coexist in the same collection but let me tell you that after all that analysis, both models are currently sold out so unfortunately you would not have to face this issue.

I would recommend getting in touch with the brand as they are very receptive in talking with their customers and see what is coming next, we have seen a LE that is outstanding, perhaps a new colour wave? We can only wait and see.

Technical Specifications

·       Ø37.5mm diameter

·       9.5mm case thickness + 2.3mm box crystal

·       45mm lug-to-lug

·       Strap width 20-16mm (lug-buckle)

·       Fits wrists from 14 cm to 21 cm

·       Regulated Japan made Miyota cal.9039 automatic calibre

·       Sapphire crystal with AR (Anti-reflective) and Anti-fingerprints coating

·       316L Stainless steel case

·       Swiss Super-LumiNova® BGW9 (Grade A) lume on hands and dial

·       Epsom patterned Italian genuine leather strap with quick-release

·       316L stainless steel tool-free micro-adjustment bracelet

·       10 ATM / 100 meters water resistant (ISO 22810:2010)

·       ≥ 4800 A/m Magnetic resistant (ISO 764:2020)