Created in 1958 by Jaeger-LeCoultre in honor of the International Geophysical Year, the first Geophysic watch remains a symbol of Swiss expertise par excellence. In keeping with this tradition, JLC launched the Geophysic collection in 2015; a collection of several models combining powerful watchmaking expertise with a classic, timeless aesthetic. This line has now been reinterpreted reinforcing its original qualities: a generously dimensioned case in platinum measuring 43.5 mm in diameter, easily legible functions, visible luminescent hands, the hightech Gyrolab balance wheel and the ability to tell time in 24 cities.
For the first time in its history, Jaeger-LeCoultre has introduced a flying tourbillon in a watch, allowing the time in 24 cities around the world to be read simultaneously. Available in a limited series of 100 pieces, the new Geophysic Tourbillon Universal Time ref. Q8126420 watch is a testament to the Manufacture's remarkable watchmaking skills expressed through the watch's ease-of-use and operating.
With its 43.5 mm platinum case, the Geophysic Tourbillon Universal Time ref. Q8126420 asserts itself as the most exclusive piece in the eponymous collection. Fascinating in many ways, this timepiece offers exceptional readability and operating. While remaining true to the ingenuity which allows for the creation of complex yet easy-to-use mechanisms, the Manufacture has followed the rules of the watchmaking tradition that defines it. Featuring the new Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 948 —an automatic movement composed of 375 parts and 42 jewels that provides a power reserve of 48 hours—, the Geophysic Tourbillon Universal Time embodies this inventive spirit in a unique and universal way.
Under the dome of its sapphire crystal, it presents a 360-degree view of the world with one rotation of the flying tourbillon in 24 hours. In this majestic planisphere, the eye is drawn to the flying tourbillon, which appears to float in space with the absence of a bridge to hold its cage. The lightly convex side view of the dial recalls the shape of a globe. On the intense blue lacquered ocean, small spirals form waves amplifying the impression of relief and depth that the watch creates when viewed from above. With a satin-brushed finish, the continents move across the central disc every 24 hours i.e. following the pace set by the flying tourbillon. In this landscape that changes as the hours go by, the tourbillon rotates around itself and the guilloché dial with remarkable accuracy. The eye is then drawn to the accelerated rolling of the Gyrolab balance wheel which, in addition to its balance spring hand-crafted in the workshops of the Manufacture, features the shape of a watch anchor, the symbol of Jaeger-LeCoultre.
With constant readability thanks to the luminescent material, which constitutes the points on the flange of the dial and the hands, the Geophysic Tourbillon Universal Time watch is easily set with a single crown. Turning over the watch, enthusiasts will recognize the detailing and ingenuity of its mechanism glimpsed through the sapphire crystal case-back. Outshining the rubies and blued screws, the solid gold monobloc oscillating weight reveals Jaeger-LeCoultre’s two characteristic initials through the heart of its half-sphere. This gifted watchmaker's symbol is visible from the front and back. The Geophysic Tourbillon Universal Time is delivered on a dark blue alligator strap with 18K white gold folding clasp.
Stay tuned for our live pictures of this watch and the rest of the novelties from all the brands exhibiting at the SIHH 2017, as we report live from Genève, Switzerland starting January 15th, 2017.
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