One of the most interesting and surprising novelties presented at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie Genève SIHH 2017 were the three new Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control models with sector two-tone dials. The introduction of these three new watches was a last-minute decision by the brand, but one that unequivocally was the right way to go. In addition to their sector two-tone dials, the watches come with a price point that will be hard to beat by other brands. As we've said it before, JLC gives you a ton of watch for the money.
The three new stainless steel models include the Master Control Date with time/date, Master Control Geographic with worldtimer complication and the Master Control Chronograph we have here.
The Dial & Case
Fitted with one of the most gorgeous sector dials out there and a 12-hour chronograph, the new Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Chronograph is vintage-inspired and reminiscent of all those legendary sector dial chonographs from a past era. The dial features an opaline center and silvered chrono registers that contrast perfectly against a silvered brushed outer ring with black sector markers. The dial has a very nice layout with a blue tachymetric scale on the periphery, sector hour markers, skeletonized blue hands and blue transfers on the chrono registers.
Fitted with a stainless steel case measuring 40 mm in diameter, the new Master Control Chronograph ref. 1538530 features rectangular rounded pushers and a pull out crown. Regardless of the lack of a screw-down crown, this watch is water resistant to 50 meters.
The Movement
The new Master Control Chronograph is powered by the JLC automatic in-house calibre 751G composed of 235 parts with a double-barrel and 37 jewels. This movement provides a power reserve of 65 hours while beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph —4 Hz. Unfortunately this movement is not visible as the watch is equipped with a solid case back.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the new Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Chronograph with Sector Two-Tone Dial from SIHH 2017 wears true to its size and with stunning wrist presence. The watch is delivered on a dark blue alligator strap with pin buckle. In a very unexpected move, Jaeger-LeCoultre continues to pack a lot of watch for the money across all of its product lines but especially within the Master Control entry level collection. The new Master Control Chronograph is definitely a must have and one of our favorite watches at the SIHH 2017. For the price, it really doesn't get any better elsewhere. In-house chonograph, check, vintage-inspired, check, sector dial, check, JLC, check.
Sticker Price $8,000 USD. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
