Inspired by the Aston Martin Vanquish, the design of the Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX7 Chronograph ref. 194T470 is the ultimate in refinement and a timepiece that pushes the limits of horological advancement like no other, fitted with the world's only pusher-free vertical-trigger chronograph mechanism. While the partnership between Jaeger-LeCoultre and Aston Martin is now long gone, the AMVOX series was born from a rich shared history whose beginnings lie in Jaeger car dials and a reciprocal passion for high watchmaking and beautiful mechanics.
Things to Know About the Watch
The Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX7 Chronograph ref. 194T470 is fitted with a titanium round case measuring 44 mm in diameter and 15.6 mm in thickness. The case is satin-brushed finished with a highly polished bezel and it features a chrono locking system for the chronograph on the left case band —we will explain how it works later. Regarding the crown, it is very sturdy and designed to resemble an automobile gear. Unfortunately the crown is not a screw-down, but a simple three position pull-out one. The watch is very light with a total weight of only 93 grams.
The Dial
The AMVOX7 Chronograph features a beautiful black skeletonized dial with a multi-layer design. The dial get its inspiration from the iconic grill on the Aston Martin Vanquish and features a 12-hour rotating disc chrono register at 9, a 30-minute rotating disc chrono register at 3, a small date aperture at 6 o'clock with a small running seconds indicator on top of it and a radial power reserve indicator —one of the most unique power reserve indicators— that spreads between 10 and 2 o'clock. To consult the remaining power reserve at any time, the radial display gradually dwindles with two red discs that move symmetrically up towards the 12 o'clock marker, almost simulating a gas petrol gauge moving all the way from empty, to half tank and full tank. The dial also features floating Arabic numerals with luminescent material —somewhat weak and not very long lasting— at 12, 2, 4, 8 and 10 o'clock and skeletonized baton hands also with luminescent inlays.
About the Chronograph Mechanism
Since the AMVOX7 Chronograph watch is equipped with a vertical-trigger chronograph —activated by tilting the case and patented by Jaeger-LeCoultre—, it was necessary to include a locking system on the left side of the case to limit the use of the mechanism. This clever system includes three different locking positions. This unique chronograph mechanism requires for the user to press the crystal at the top and/or bottom to start, stop and reset the chrono function. As the user presses the crystal at 12 o'clock, an ingenious lever system activates or deactivates the chronograph functions.
The chronograph is started and stopped by pressing on the crystal at 12 o’clock, while the counters are reset by pressing on the crystal at 6 o’clock. Now in order to avoid operating the chronograph accidentally, the locking mechanism on the case band prevents accidental usage of the chrono while this system is in its locked position —top position. To use the start and stop feature only the lever needs to be set to the bottom position and in order to have full access to stop/start/reset functions, the lever needs to be placed in its middle position.
About the Strap & Movement
Another very interesting feature on this watch is the quick-release innovative design of the new integrated interchangeable strap system controlled by a fork-shaped lever located on the case back. Pressing the catch releases the strap fastening and thus enables quick and easy strap changes. The solid case back also is the perfect protection for the Jaeger-LeCoultre automatic calibre 756 composed of 335 parts, 39 jewels, two barrels and which provides a power reserve of 65 hours while beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph.
The charcoal grey alligator leather strap is composed of two different layers with two different textures. While the top layer features large alligator square scales, the bottom layer —perimeter— looks and feels more like calfskin. To guarantee its reliability and its comfortable fit, the strap is fitted with a double folding buckle that can be easily adjusted to the wearers wrist size.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the watch wears slightly bigger than its size but extremely comfortable. If you are an Aston Martin owner, this watch is a must have in your precious watch collection. Now, if you don't own an Aston Martin, perhaps is time to stop by your Aston Martin dealership and get one to pair with this gorgeous Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX7 Chronograph. We have included a video at the bottom of this post so you can see the watch in operation.
Last Known Sticker Price $27,000 USD. For more info click here.