Today, we bring you these images we took at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie SIHH 2015 of the beautiful Jaeger-LeCoultre pavilion. Following an astronomical theme for both their novelties and the decor and layout of their pavilion, the Jaeger-LeCoultre set up appeared more welcoming and harmonious. With a large circular pendant lamp at the center of the pavilion and with all their novelties set up around the comfortable sitting area, the design of the Jaeger-LeCoultre pavilion capitalized on Mies Van der Rohe's ''less is more" approach. Tastefully done with a telescope at the end of the room and a celestial screen, this is for sure one of our favorite spots at the SIHH 2015.
Posts filed under Jaeger-LeCoultre
SIHH 2015: Introducing the New Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon Cylindrique Set. Live Pictures and Pricing.
Among the 28 novelties that were presented by Jaeger-LeCoultre, the new Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon Cylindrique Set ref. 5083401 takes one of the center stages. This new watch features an elegant blend of jewellery and fine watchmaking with its diamond-set dial revealing a fascinating tourbillon. Its dial is in fact set with both diamonds and sapphires. Its movement is embellished with finely crafted decoration and a solid gold monobloc oscillating weight. The Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon Cylindrique Set is perhaps in the finest diamond set watches we have seen in the last decade. Tastefully done the watch features an 18K white gold case measuring 42 mm in diameter by 13.2 mm in thickness. Featuring a cylindrical tourbillon, the gem set dial on this watch is mesmerizing and captivating at the same time.
SIHH 2015: Introducing the New Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Moon 39 Boutique Special Edition. Live Pictures and Pricing.
Pure lines and an aesthetically refined dial. A graceful ballet brings the dial to life with the moon-phase display. Sapphire crystal case back reveals the movement. Only 4.9 mm thick, this ultra-thin movement is proof that technique and sophistication, however extreme, can happily coexist inside a narrow space. Fitted with a beautiful slate chocolate sunburst dial that is a true chameleon depending on the lighting conditions around the watch, this new Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Moon 39 Boutique Special Edition ref. 136255J just presented at the SIHH 2015 in Geneva, is a watch that delivers on the rich history of the brand and a perfect example of its classic DNA.
Simplicity, elegance and functionality are the attributes that characterize the new Master Ultra Thin Moon 29 Boutique Special Edition ref. 136255J.
SIHH 2015: Introducing the New Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Calendar with Meteorite Dial. Live Pics and Pricing.
Our favorite Master Calendar to date was just released by Jaeger-LeCoultre. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Calendar ref. 1558421 automatic watch presents the different information of its calendar in a harmonious and extremely clear manner: day, month, date and moon phases. Its design is inspired by the historical watch with calendar by Jaeger-LeCoultre in 1945. Fitted this time with a striking beautiful meteorite dial, every piece comes with a very unique look due to the material used in its creation. Fitted with a stainless steel or rose gold case measuring 39 mm in diameter, this elegant timepiece is one that will for sure conquer your pocket. Faithful to the aesthetic codes of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control line of watches, this model combines a pure, refined design with exceptional technical performances, all in gently reduced proportions, allowing it to suit all wrists.
Insider: Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX5 World Chronograph Racing. Only 100 Pieces of this Stunning Limited Edition.
Inspired by the Aston Martin, the design of the Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX5 World Chronograph Racing ref. 193J420 is the ultimate in refinement and a timepiece that is quite exclusive as only 100 pieces were ever made.
The partnership between Jaeger-LeCoultre is not the result of chance but the meeting of the minds. 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. The partnership between Jaeger-LeCoultre and Aston Martin has thus developed around a respect for shared values and a constant quest for technical and aesthetic perfection. The AMVOX5 World Chronograph Racing ref. 193J420 is a perfect example of what bright minds can achieve when joining forces and working together.
News: Jaeger-LeCoultre Presents the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin 1948. An Iconic Timepiece in White and Blue.
A cult watch that has appealed to both men and women, the Reverso has shown up in all manner of fascinating guises since 1931. Featuring an attractive blend of elegance and sportiness, the Reverso became a great classic of the Art Deco cultural movement, of which it embodies the essential values: refinement, artistic craftsmanship and aesthetic clarity. Ever since its birth, and above and beyond its timekeeping function, the Reverso has played the role of a guardian of memories. The Grande Reverso Ultra Thin 1948 with its stainless steel case revives the spirit of a bygone era.
News: Jaeger-LeCoultre Presents the Geophysic 1958 Limited Edition. A Tribute to Science and Watchmaking.
Today April 10, 2014 at the Explorer's Club in New York City, Jaeger-LeCoultre unveiled the new Geophysic 1958, a watch that pays tribute to science and precision in watchmaking in three limited editions including a stainless steel model, an 18K pink gold and a platinum version. Back in 1958 when the scientific community composed of researchers from many different countries was preparing to undertake a program of major scientific explorations as part of the International Geophysical Year, this manufacture decided to associate with this unique initiative by creating an exceptional precision instrument named the Geophysic.
The reissue of this legendary Jaeger-LeCoultre timepiece comes back to life with a larger case with a diameter of 38.5 mm and a thickness of 11.40 mm —taking into account current watch size preferences while remaining entirely true to the design of the original model— and with a pure, highly legible dial. Inspired by the original model, the design of these watches further enhances the excellent legibility and aesthetic distinction of the historic instrument. In the spirit of the calibre 478BWSbr —originally fitted inside the first Geophysic from 1958—, the Geophysic 1958 is equipped with the Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 898/1 composed of 202 parts, 29 jewels and considered one of the most precise and reliable in-house automatic movements on the market today. This automatic calibre provides a power reserve of 43 hours when fully wound.
Three central hands indicating the hours, minutes and seconds glide steadily over the grained white dial bearing the inscription “Geophysic” along with the brand signature at 12 o’clock. The circle of applied hour-markers is interrupted by 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock numerals, thereby reproducing the layout and design codes of this legendary model. These Haute Horlogerie timepieces offering a unique combination of usefulness and aesthetic appeal bear the unmistakable imprint of the Grande Maison, as reflected in the luminescent coating in the historical color on the dots facing the hour-markers around the inner bezel ring. Meanwhile, the dagger-shaped hands are rhodium-plated on the steel version and radiate a warm golden glow on the 18-carat pink gold variation. Entirely in tune with the perfectly restrained dial of which the purely functional nature accentuates the timeless elegance, the refined case embodies a range of truly exceptional qualities. Water-resistant to 100 meters, its back displays the signature emblem playing with the J and L initials of Jaeger-LeCoultre superimposed on a globe crisscrossed by latitude and longitude lines.
Each version of the Geophysic watch is fitted with an alligator leather strap secured by an unusual pin buckle in colors matching the metal of the case: black for the steel model and chocolate brown for the pink gold variation. This new legendary instrument will be reserved for a circle of passionate enthusiasts who will enjoy the privilege of wearing a timepiece paying homage to a fascinating chapter in the history of science. The Geophysic 1958 watch will be available in an 800-piece limited edition for the steel version with a black alligator strap—, a 300-piece for the 18K pink gold with brown alligator strap and a Jaeger-LeCoultre Boutique exclusive platinum model produced in a limited series of 58 pieces with blue alligator strap and a slightly different dial that only includes the 12 and 6 numerals.
Sticker Price $9,800 Stainless Steel ref. Q8008520, $20,800 18K Pink Gold ref. Q8002520 and $32,000 Platinum ref. Q800652j. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
Experience: Vega Sicilia Tinto 'Valbuena' 5° Vintage 2007. A Superb Wine Just as Good as a Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra-Thin Perpetual.
When it comes to wines from Spain, 'Ribera del Duero' is one of our favorite wine regions and when you think of 'Ribera del Duero', Vega Sicilia is the first name that comes to mind as this is one of the most amazing wineries in that region. Just like when one thinks about one of the best perpetual calendars in the market and the first name name that comes to mind is Jaeger-LeCoultre.
Vega Sicilia Tinto 'Valbuena' 5° vintage 2007 is an spectacular wine mainly made from 'Tempranillo', Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and it is one of the best examples of what great wines are supposed to taste, smell and look like. Vega Sicilia is without a doubt the best and most refined wine made in Spain. In 1864, Eloy Lecanda founded the winery that symbolizes the golden legend of Spanish red wine. Throughout its long history, it has belonged to different owners, although it has always maintained an unquestionable personality, making concentrated, mature, generous and extremely elegant.
Vega Sicilia only makes three different wines under the Vega Sicilia winery brand name: 'Valbuena' 5°, 'Reserva Especial' —with no vintage as this is a blend of different vintages— and 'Único'. Vega Sicilia is also the owner of Pintia, Alion —often called the poor man's Vega Sicilia— and Tokaj Oremus which are not sold under the Vega Sicilia name; however, they still happen to also be some of the best wines in the world.
Bodegas Vega Sicilia is located in the town of Valbuena de Duero between Peñafiel and Valladolid in the wine region of Ribera del Duero in Spain. Since 1982, the company is owned by the Alvaréz family. What makes this wine so unique and well balanced, is the aging process. For the 'Valbuena' 5°, the duration of the aging process in wood is three and a half years and during this time, the wine is rotated form new casks to heavily used American oak casks with the only goal in mind of obtaining the perfect balance between the wine and the wood. Once this has been achieved, the wines finally rest in large wooden vats, which prepares them for later bottling to then end their journey with a calm rest in the bottle in specially acclimatised installations. The time they remain there, depends on the format of the bottle: Vega Sicilia 'Único' —750ml bottle— takes three years or more to age in the bottle, while for the 'Valbuena 5°, the period for aging in the bottle is around a year and a half.
Considering the time that it takes for a certain vintage to make it to the stores you are guaranteed a wine with certain level of maturity and perfection that will be ready to be drank. Now, when it comes to Vega Sicilia wines in the U.S., be prepared to look for it as hard as you can as this winery has a very limited production and only 100 stores carry it in the country.
This wine is characterized for its strong notes of black cherry and oak on the palate and a superb delicate finish with almost no acidity or alcoholic taste on the throat. Best paired with some 'Ibérico' ham, lamb or venison.
Sticker Price $180-230 USD. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here and for Vega Sicilia here.
SIHH 2014: Jaeger-LeCoultre Presents the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin 1931 Chocolate Dial. Live Pictures.
Over the years, the Reverso has appeared in a number of different guises and been enriched with various unusual sizes and new horological complications – all the while remaining loyal to the spirit of the watch with two faces. On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of this timepiece that has become a cult object, Jaeger-LeCoultre chose to return to the very origins of a legend by presenting the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931, directly inspired by the aesthetic codes of the historical model. This creation, distinguished by an ultra-thin case, contemporary dimensions and remarkably faithfulness to the original, was enthusiastically received by devotees of the Reverso and by watch connoisseurs who expressed the wish that this vintage edition should not remain a one-off model. In response to their desires, the Manufacture already introduced the Grande Reverso Rouge with a deep red dial in 2012, followed the next year by the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Duoface Blue. For 2014, Jaeger-LeCoultre unveils the third member of this splendid trilogy: the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin 1931 with a chocolate-toned dial.
For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre SIHH 2014 Novelties click here.
SIHH 2014: Jaeger-LeCoultre Unveils Their New Timepieces. All of Them are Just Amazing.
In addition to some of the timepieces that had been unveiled right before the SIHH 2014, Jaeger-LeCoultre surprised everyone with a very large number of new watches including the Hybris Mechanica 11, Master Ultra Thin 1907 and Master Ultra Thin Grand Feu, Master Ultra Thin and Master Ultra Thin Date, the chocolate Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931, the Duomètre Unique Travel Time and Duomètre à Quantième Lunaire and the Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon Cylindrique à Quantième Perpétuel amongst others.
More pictures and full reviews to follow. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre SIHH 2014 Novelties click here.
News: Pre-SIHH 2014 Jaeger-LeCoultre Presents the Hybris Mechanica Eleven Watch. A 75-Piece Limited Edition Ultra Thin Minute Repeater with Flying Tourbillon.
A Master Ultra Thin Minute Repeater Flying Tourbillon, a new era in the world of Grand Complications
In 1907, Jaeger-LeCoultre laid the foundations of what was to prove a key element in the identity of its watches. That was the year when the association between Paris-based businessman Edmond Jaeger and Swiss watchmaker Jacques-David LeCoultre gave birth to the world’s thinnest pocket watch featuring a blend of aesthetic refinement and horological sophistication that only a Manufacture uniting the full range of skills under one roof could hope to achieve. Today, Jaeger-LeCoultre confirms its ability to anticipate the future of Fine Watchmaking by unveiling the Master Ultra Thin Minute Repeater Flying Tourbillon watch, the eleventh creation in the Hybris Mechanica collection and the first ultra-thin Grand Complication model.
Eleven, the number standing for inventions and exceeding expectations. Hybris Mechanica Eleven watch, a new era – that of ultra-thin Grand Complications.
Think-tanks composed of insatiable visionaries and tireless developers: such is the very nature of the teams at Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre. It enables them, just one year after the introduction of the Master Ultra Thin Jubilee, to present an authentic pioneer in the field of Grand Complications. The newcomer bears a name revealing a set of technical feats that are bound to stimulate the imagination of Fine Watchmaking connoisseurs. And rightly so. The Master Ultra Thin Minute Repeater Flying Tourbillon stems from research on two iconic horological complications. It is indeed the slimmest minute repeater in its category at just 7.9 mm thin. This watch capitalises on eight separate patents, six of which are entirely new. Its entire development process was governed by two watchwords – ingenuity and performance. Its quintessence lies in a successful bid to achieve extreme slenderness while making no compromises on reliability.
Hybris Mechanica Eleven is equipped with an original tourbillon, a high-performance new balance-spring, a peripheral automatic winding system, a retractable single push button, as well as a new minute repeater equipped with a silent-timelapse reduction system. As the latest addition to an illustrious and fertile saga of Jaeger-LeCoultre striking watches, this model consolidates the brand’s leadership in this field. Hybris Mechanica Eleven watch resolutely confirms that excellence and surpassing existing limits are second nature to Jaeger-LeCoultre.
Contrary to the classic tourbillon with a construction that tends to obstruct the view of certain components, the Manufacture wished to allow complete visibility of the heart of the watch. Avoiding ordinary solutions, Jaeger-LeCoultre watchmakers have developed and patented an all-new tourbillon. Hybris Mechanica Eleven watch is equipped with a world première in the shape of a flying tourbillon fitted with a flying balance-wheel. This technical feat ensures a full view of both balance-wheel and spring that may both be observed in motion from a radically different perspective. The gaze is captivated by the regular swinging of the balance-wheel, with the balance-spring fixed above it in a highly unusual stage-setting. This expressive and appealing construction also contributes to reducing the overall thickness thanks to the prodigious inventiveness of the master-watchmakers in the Manufacture. These substantial developments required rethinking the regulating organ and developing a new balance-spring specifically hand-crafted in the Complications workshop. All the characteristics of this new tourbillon are geared towards achieving extreme precision, watchmaking’s ultimate goal.
In its absolute quest to optimize components, the Manufacture has conceived and developed an automatic winding system that captivates by its remarkable conception and execution. To provide more space and achieve record-breaking ultra-thin dimensions, the winding is handled by a oscillating peripheral weight with a platinum segment visible through narrow openings on the dial. This platinum segment takes advantage of the wearer’s wrist movements to revolve around the dial and wind the mainspring. It is fitted on a ceramic ball bearing mechanism specially developed for this device. It is also extremely effective and able to move freely in either direction. However only clockwise rotation actually winds the calibre. The sculptural purity of the perfectly integrated high-performance oscillating weight becomes an aesthetic element in its own right, thereby further enhancing the graphic power of the watch.
Hybris Mechanica Eleven watch stems from a new line of approach: a minute repeater movement entirely rethought and rebuilt to be ultra-thin. A minute repeater strikes the hours, quarters and minutes on demand. When there are no quarters to be struck, a lengthy silent timelapse occurs between sounding the hours and the minutes. While there is always such an audible hiatus in the sequence, it is particularly audible when there are no quarters involved. To solve this problem, an innovative system reducing this silent timelapse was developed. It detects the absence of quarters to be struck and thus eliminates the marked pause between striking the hours and minutes. As a result, the appropriate high- and low-pitched notes seamlessly follow their appointed pattern without breaking the tempo. Again as part of an effort to make the watch even slimmer while preserving an extremely pure aesthetic, this minute repeater is activated by a retractable single pushbutton for which the Manufacture has filed a patent. Hybris Mechanica Eleven is equipped with a discreet locking system at 8 o’clock. Actuating it brings out the pushbutton that triggers the minute repeater. Once the minute repeater is activated, the pushbutton returns to its initial recessed position, thus ensuring that nothing disturbs the flowing, elegant appearance of the watch. The discretion, the user-friendliness and the technical feat represented by this retractable push button are not the only advantages of this ingenious innovation. As opposed to the traditional slides used to activate the minute repeater function and for which the length of travel may vary according to the hour to be struck, this construction ensures a constant 2 mm travel distance that is enough to both wind the barrel and trigger the minute repeater.
Issued in a 75-piece limited edition, Hybris Mechanica Eleven is powered by Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 362 and has a 45-hour power reserve. It is crafted in ultra-white 18-carat gold and teamed with a high-end alligator leather strap secured by a white gold pin buckle. The impressive complexity of Hybris Mechanica Eleven foreshadows the future presentation of the Hybris Artistica collection – of which the mission is to combine the most technical and creative skills of the artisans within a Manufacture housing 180 different forms of know-how. Jaeger-LeCoultre is more strongly inspired than ever by the intangible heritage of the Maison: the unquenchable thirst to push existing boundaries and to create timepieces in the vanguard of innovation. Driven by such strong convictions, Hybris Mechanica Eleven places Jaeger-LeCoultre firmly at the very pinnacle of ultra-thin horology and Grand Complications.
For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Minute Repeater Flying Tourbillon
Movement: Mechanical automatic movement, Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 362, crafted, assembled and decorated by hand. 45-hour power reserve, 21,600 vibrations per hour, 471 parts, 4.8 mm thick, 33.3 mm in diameter.
Dial: Silver-toned, grained, Traditional baton-type —transferred.
Hands: Dauphine.
Functions:
Hours, minutes
Minute repeater equipped with silent-timelapse reduction function
Flying tourbillon with flying balance-wheel
Automatic winding via a peripheral oscillating weight
Case: 18-carat extra-white gold, 7.9 mm thick and 41 mm in diameter.
Polished lugs, entirely polished caseband and bezel
Water resistance: 3 bar
Strap: Black high-end Jaeger-LeCoultre alligator leather, white gold high-end pin buckle
Reference: 1313520, 75-piece limited series.
News: Pre-SIHH 2014 Jaeger-LeCoultre Presents the Duomètre Unique Travel Time. A Fascinating World Timer Complication.
The Grande Maison in the Vallée de Joux undeniably owes its incredible destiny to the inventive spirit of its founder, Antoine LeCoultre. Since 1833, every watch bearing the Jaeger-LeCoultre signature is crafted with the same passion, guided by a constant quest for technical enhancement. Each masterpiece, heir to over 180 years of expertise, benefits from state-of-the-art research. A fresh interpretation of the revolutionary Dual-Wing movement, the Duomètre Unique Travel Time watch in pink gold reflects the technical breakthroughs achieved by the Manufacture in the field of world-time watches and offers original solutions for travelers with a love of Fine Watchmaking.
The Duomètre Unique Travel Time is the first world-time watch enabling to-the-minute adjustment of the second time zone. This enables travelers to accurately set the second time zone on all continents and countries regardless of the time difference. In keeping with the technical and aesthetic spirit of the creations by the Duomètre line signed Jaeger-LeCoultre, the Duomètre Unique Travel Time watch reveals the various facets of horological excellence by the Manufacture in the Vallée de Joux. Past, present and future converge in perfect harmony in this exceptional creation.
For this movement, the Dual-Wing system is divided into two distinct mechanisms: the first is devoted to displaying the local time, and the second to showing that in a second time zone. The two mechanisms share the same regulating organ but each has its own independent source of energy, thereby avoiding the losses due to interaction between the mechanisms. The operation of the dual time-zone display does not in any way influence the running of the watch, a fact that considerably enhances the precision of the watch. Each mechanism has a 50-hour power reserve and, governed by a wish to achieve ideal user-friendliness, the same crown serves to wound both barrels. The timekeeping barrel is wound by a counter-clockwise rotation, and the travel-time barrel by a clockwise rotation.
Given the complexity of the functions, the finely grained dial provides impeccable clarity. Two magnificent symmetrically arranged sub-dials lend a perfectly balanced touch to this horological creation: the first sub-dial at 2 o’clock sets the stage for the hour and minute hand; while the second at 10 o’clock hosts the jumping hour and minutes of the travel time. The globe at 6 o’clock displays a world map surrounded by the time-zone indications and the day/night ring. The globe is synchronized with the travel time. The single crown is used to adjust the local time in position two and the travel time in position one, and, as well as to wind the mainsprings when in position zero. Once both time zones are synchronized, the traveler can simply use the push-pieces at 8 and 10 o’clock to adjust the jumping hours in the left sub-dial according to the destination, and in case of a non-standard time zone, the minutes can be adjusted separately using the crown in position one.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 383, a remarkably beautiful and exquisitely finished movement is revealed through the sapphire crystal caseback. Its bridges and gear trains are hand-chamfered and feature polished sinks. The moving parts, also hand-chamfered or adorned with polished sinks, are graced with a snailed or smoothed finish. These decorative touches are clearly inspired by the grand tradition of the brand’s pocket-watches and lay new milestones through their exceptionally refined finishing. The engraved names of the cities corresponding to the world’s 24 time zones are also visible through the back.
A worthy heir to the Duomètre line, the pink gold Duomètre Unique Travel Time is a celebration of technical and precious Fine Watchmaking, vividly illustrating over 180 years of history while prefiguring the watchmaking of tomorrow.
Technical Specifications of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre Unique Travel Time:
Movement: New mechanical manually-wound movement, Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 383, crafted, assembled and decorated by hand. 50-hour power reserve for each of the two barrels, 498 parts, 54 jewels, 7.25 mm thick, 34.30 mm in diameter, 28'800 vibrations per hour.
Dial: Grained, silver-toned
Hands: Leaf-type
Functions: Hours, minutes —Home time—, Hour —jumping; 2nd time-zone display—, minutes and world map indication of the two power reserves
Case: Pink gold, 13.65 mm thick, 42 mm in diameter, Polished lugs and satin-brushed caseband.
Water resistance: 5o meters.
Strap: Alligator leather, pink gold pin buckle.
Reference: Q6062520
For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
News: Pre SIHH 2014 Jaeger-LeCoultre Unveils the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin 1931 Chocolate Dial. Absolute Elegance in a Pink Gold Case.
Over the years, the Reverso has appeared in a number of different guises and been enriched with various unusual sizes and new horological complications – all the while remaining loyal to the spirit of the watch with two faces. On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of this timepiece that has become a cult object, Jaeger-LeCoultre chose to return to the very origins of a legend by presenting the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931, directly inspired by the aesthetic codes of the historical model. This creation, distinguished by an ultra-thin case, contemporary dimensions and remarkably faithfulness to the original, was enthusiastically received by devotees of the Reverso and by watch connoisseurs who expressed the wish that this vintage edition should not remain a one-off model. In response to their desires, the Manufacture already introduced the Grande Reverso Rouge with a deep red dial in 2012, followed the next year by the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Duoface Blue. For 2014, Jaeger-LeCoultre unveils the third member of this splendid trilogy: the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin 1931 with a chocolate-toned dial.
The new model, entirely in keeping with its historical ascendance, vividly evokes the finest hours of Art Deco. Its shapes, its color and its materials are the ultimate expression of a movement that heralded the inception of industrial design while favoring hand craftsmanship executed to perfection. Entranced by this delightful color palette, the eye naturally lingers on the pleasing contrasts between the glowing chocolate shade of the watch face and the pink gold of the case, including the traditional gadroons framing the dial. This irresistible association is further underscored by the judicious reinterpretation of the aesthetic principles governing the original. Apart from the 12 o’clock numeral, the hours are shown by baton-shaped hour-markers, while the hour and minute hands feature a dagger-type profile. The small seconds at 6 o’clock perform a once a minute rotation on the dedicated rectangular subdial. This picture of pure, restrained refinement would not be complete without a mention of the “REVERSO” inscription exactly reproducing that appearing on the historical model. Everything might seem to have been said, and yet it is only now that the distinctive emotional ties uniting an owner and his Reverso can begin to be woven.
The usual chestnut brown alligator leather strap with pink gold pin buckle is just one of the options proposed by the Grande Maison in the Vallée de Joux for securing the Reverso Ultra Thin 1931 to the wrist. Polo players, who have been wild about the Reverso for over 80 years, are no less demanding when it comes to choosing the pair of boots they will wear to compete in various prestigious tournaments. They show no hesitation in confidently striding through the doors of Casa Fagliano, established since 1892 in the worldwide polo capital, Buenos Aires. For well over a century, the Fagliano family has been dedicated to a single craft of which it masters all the mysteries and intricacies: fine leather work. The descendants of the company founder continue to share the many duties involved in an authentic family-style division of labor. Their creations are keenly sought-after by the best polo players who simply could not imagine playing a match without their favorite boots. For the Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre, Casa Fagliano has agreed to produce hand-crafted straps in successive stages following the strict principles of time-honored tradition in working with cordovan leather, which is renowned for its exceptional resistance. Delivered along with each watch, the strap made in the Casa Fagliano workshops is distinguished by its elegant suppleness and hand-made mode of production that makes it truly one of a kind. The Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre is proud of this partnership that further strengthens the ties between polo and the Reverso. Over eight decades since its birth, aesthetes will be more delighted than ever to welcome the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin 1931, which combines passion and prodigious expertise with the legendary quality characterizing all timepieces bearing the Jaeger-LeCoultre signature.
For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
Technical Specifications
Grande Reverso Ultra Thin 1931 Chocolate Dial ref. Q2782560.
Movement: Mechanical manually-wound movement, Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 822/2, crafted, assembled and decorated by hand. 21,600 vph, 19 jewels, thickness of 2.95 mm, 45-hour power reserve.
Dial: Chocolate dial with powdered numerals and hour-markers.
Hands: Baton-type, faceted, gold plated
Case: 18-carat pink gold with a height of 46.8 mm, a width of 27.4 mm and a thickness of 7.3 mm with a polished finish.
Water-resistant: 3 bars/30 meters.
Straps and buckle: Matte brown alligator leather 20/18 and 2nd strap in cordovan leather, crafted by “Casa Fagliano” of Buenos Aires fitted with a pin buckle in 18 carat pink gold.
Insider: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Hometime Aston Martin. A Very Nice and Understated Dual Time Complication.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Hometime Aston Martin ref. 162847N is perhaps one of the most elegant and understated dual time complications out there. With its Aston Martin-inspired design, this watch features a slim satin-brushed finished stainless steel case measuring 40 mm in diameter that wears relatively smaller on the wrist. The watch is very nice and quite useful for those traveling frequently between timezones.
The Master Hometime Aston Martin features a black sunray-brushed dial that appears more glossy than sunray due to its domed sapphire crystal and the reflections created by light. The dial is perfectly balanced featuring a nice symmetry between the 24-hour indicator at 12 and the running seconds at 6 o’clock that is divided in quarters and which features an overlapping date aperture. The two time zones are easy to read as the reference time is being indicated by a skeletonized hand with a red tip that provides unparalleled contrast. As it is common with Jaeger-LeCoultre timepieces, this watch features classic and elegant dauphine hands with a small touch of luminescent material. The registers on the dial are recessed and nicely texturized with a guilloché finish as you will be able to appreciate in the pictures.
The beating heart inside this beauty is the automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 975H composed of 230 parts, 29 jewels and which provides a power reserve of 48 hours when fully wound. The calibre is very nicely decorated and fully visible via the display case back. One advantage of this watch over other dual time zone watches, is that the 24-hour hand is not the one that moves independently but the home time, allowing for easy adjustment when traveling between time zones. If you keep your hour hand and the 24-hour hand synchronized, every time you travel it will be easy to adjust your time to the new time zone and always keeping track of the hometime with the 24-hour red tip hand. If you are not traveling you could always synchronize the 24-hour hand to the second time zone you want to keep as a reference without the need of a bezel.
This watch is fitted with a nice grayish blueish matte alligator strap with double folding clasp. Opposed to other JLC watches we have reviewed, the length on this strap is perfect. The strap has a very unique and nice color but is somewhat stiff. We are confident that after a week-long break-in period, the strap will perfectly mold to your wrist.
As mentioned earlier, this watch wears slightly smaller on the wrist but quite comfortable. The biggest down side to this watch, is that the dial along with the untreated sapphire crystal create unwanted reflections that make reading time somewhat hard. Regardless, we feel that this watch is very nicely done and an extremely great value for your money.
Sticker Price $9,000 USD. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
Experience: Spain's Winebota. The Perfect and Most Stylish Way to Carry Wine.
If you have been to Spain or grew up in a Latin American country, you already know what we are talking about and we are bringing back to life some very fond memories while drinking wine or partying around. A winebota is a leather pouch commonly used in Spain to carry wine and other beverages. The winebota was created centuries ago as an alternative to breakable containers and as a more convenient way to carry wine around. These leather pouches are either lined with latex or with a tree resin —named pez in Spanish and only suitable for wine— to prevent liquid from seeping through. The latex lined winebotas are always the best option as you can carry all sorts of beverages and they are maintenance free. Another great think about them is that you can fit a whole liter of wine in them —a bottle of wine is 750ml.
Now, if you decide to get one of these winebotas to take with you on your next skiing trip to the Swiss Alps or on a hunting trip to the heart of the Appalachian mountains, make sure you drink from it the right way. Once you remove the top cap shaped like a bell from the double endpiece, you need to lift the winebota and stretch your arms as far as possible to then squeeze the wine out and create a long stream shot just like Spaniards do when running with the bulls in Pamplona. These winebotas come in a variety of cool designs, colors and types of leather. The one pictured here is from their Iconography line featuring a wild boar.
Sticker Price $80 USD. For more info on Winebotas click here.
News: Jaeger-LeCoultre's Two Unique Pieces Raised $790K USD at RED Auction.
Press Release
Two of the world’s foremost design pioneers, Sir Jonathan Ive, KBE, and Marc Newson, CBE, have collaborated with musician and philanthropist Bono to organize a (RED) Auction celebrating the very best of design and innovation. Proceeds from the November 23, 2013 sale at Sotheby’s New York will benefit The Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The auction featured icons of design selected by Sir Jonathan Ive and Marc Newson and works that were personally customized by the pair:
The custom Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos 561 clock with unique red accents created for the (RED) Auction and estimated at $20,000-30,000 USD resulted in $425,000 USD.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Tribute to Deep Sea watch which has been customized with a unique red dial and the (RED) logo engraved on the back of the watch, estimated at $10,000-15,000 USD, sold for $365,000 USD.
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s two unique pieces raised $790,000 USD at (RED) Auction, while the auction raised $12,883,000 USD to fight against AIDS in Africa.
For more info on RED click here and on Jaeger-LeCoultre here.
Experience: Three Fairly Unknown Long Filler Habanos Alongside Three Very Well-Known Jaeger-LeCoultre Watches.
If you like good cigars, you definitely can appreciate the difference between Habanos and cigars made outside of Cuba. These three fairly unknown Habanos pictured here —Diplomaticos 'No. 2', Juan Lopez 'Coronas' and Quai d'Orsay 'Coronas Claro'— are as amazing as any of the most popular Cuban brands that even non-connoisseurs know about.
While these cigars are not as well-known as Montecristo, Cohiba, Partagas or Romeo y Julieta, these three cigars can play at the level of those very well known brands. Unfortunately, today only refined Cuban cigar connoisseurs know them well. Alongside, these fantastic Habanos, we have three very well-known classic Jaeger-LeCoultre timepieces that embody the essence of their manufacture as well as these Cubans embody the essence of Habanos S.A.
Let's start talking about Diplomaticos 'No. 2'. This brand fairly unknown outside of Cuba and hard to find is somewhat of a recent brand dating from the 1960s. It bears a marked resemblance to Montecristo and it uses numbers instead of names to describe its sizes. This delicious cigar is completely handmade with long fillers a.k.a. 'tripa larga' using leaves from the renowned region of 'Vuelta Abajo'. This is a long cigar measuring 6.14" in length with a 52 ring gauge. With hints of leather, pepper and coffee this cigar is rich and medium to full flavored. The flavor profile stays even for the first two thirds of the cigar and becomes stronger on the last third. Around one full hour of burning time in a perfectly rolled cigar with perfect draw and very even burn.
Juan Lopez 'Coronas' is a full-bodied cigar that evokes the notes of a Partagas. This is another brand fairly unknown outside of Cuba as it is considered more of a local brand and very limited amounts of it are ever exported. This cigar is named after its founder, Juan Lopez Diaz, a Spanish businessman that founded the brand in the 1870s. This superb cigar is also handmade with 'tripa larga' from 'Vuelta Abajo'. This cigar measures 5.6" in length with a 42 ring gauge. With hints of cocoa and leather this cigar is quite rich but not overpowering. The flavor profile is very even throughout the whole cigar and it provides around 45 minutes of burning time. A nice long white ash characterizes this delicate cigar.
Lastly, let's talk about Quai d'Orsay 'Coronas Claro', another very local brand that owes its origin to the refined taste of the French market. Created in the 1970s, the name is taken from a well-known street in Paris right next to the left bank of the Seine river. This brand has become increasingly popular among French connoisseurs that visit the island and among those that can find it in limited quantities outside of Cuba. This mild cigar measuring 5.6" in length with a 42 ring gauge is made of a light tasting blend of long filler leaves from 'Vuelta Abajo' and its wrappers are mainly distinguished by their 'Claro' — light brown— and 'Colorado Claro' —mid-brown— colors. Hints of caramel and leather come to mind when smoking this cigar with a very creamy flavor profile. The flavor evolves after the first half and the burning time is approximately 35 to 40 minutes. This is a perfect cigar for the inexperienced cigar smoker or for the ladies that enjoy the good life.
If you have the refined taste to appreciate fascinating timepieces like these three Jaeger-LeCoultre, you definitely understand that certain things in life need to be experienced at least once. Therefore, find these three Cubans and have yourself a wonderful evening in the company of your timepieces and your favorite drink.
For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
News: Jaeger-LeCoultre is The Official Sponsor of the 120th Argentine Polo Open of Palermo.
Press Release
In 2013, Jaeger-LeCoultre enjoys the honour of becoming the official sponsor and timekeeper of the 120th Argentine Polo Open of Palermo – the oldest polo tournament in the world, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year. From November 16th to December 7th 2013, polo aficionados will be able to enjoy this fascinating championship featuring three weeks of competition pitting the world’s eight best teams against each other. The event created in 1893 was initially named the River Plate Polo Championship and acquired its definitive name in 1923 when the River Plate Polo Association became the Argentine Polo Association. Ever since, the Open of Palermo is held each year at the Campo Argentino de Polo in Palermo, a Buenos Aires district popularly known as the 'Cathedral of Polo'. The polo stadium can accommodate up to 16,000 spectators during the tournament around the two grass playing fields providing an oasis of greenery amid the Buenos Aires skyscrapers.
Organized by the Argentine Polo Association —AAP—, the Argentine Polo Open of Palermo is the world’s most prestigious polo tournament. Together with the Tortugas Open-Argentina and the Hurlingham, the Argentine Polo Open of Palermo form the famous Argentine Triple Crown, one of the most spectacular and eagerly awaited fixtures on the annual polo calendar and reserved exclusively for teams with a 28 to 40-goal handicap.
No watch can claim to be as closely linked to the world of polo as the Reverso by Jaeger-LeCoultre. It was created in 1931 at the request of British colonial army officers in India who were tired of seeing their watches damaged by their polo matches – thereby sparking the invention of the famous swiveling case that protected the glass and dial by exposing only the metal back to potential knocks. Ever since, the ties between the legendary reversible case and polo have remained deeply embedded in the DNA of the Reverso watch, which has constantly evolved and adapted to changing times. Today, Jaeger-LeCoultre is more inseparably bound up than ever with polo through its regular involvement in sporting partnerships around the world thanks to its internationally recognized ambassadors such as Argentinean polo player Eduardo Novillo Astrada.
For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
Insider: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual. An Impressive, Easy-to-Read Perpetual Calendar in a Very Thin Case.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual ref. 1302520 is nothing but elegant and a very easy-to-read perpetual calendar featuring the traditional Jaeger-LeCoultre one push piece corrector for all complications on the calendar. Once the calendar is set, it needs no adjustment until 2100. The perpetual calendar mechanism takes into account the length of each month and takes into account the 29th of February for every leap year.
This elegant watch is fitted with a very thin rose gold case measuring 39mm in diameter and only 9.2mm in thickness. The cream color eggshell dial is perfectly balanced with an uncluttered configuration featuring rose gold applied markers, recessed indicators for the moon phase at 12, day of the week at 9, date at 3, month at 6, a small year aperture between 7 and 8 o'clock and a small night/day indicator via a very small aperture above the central pinion. To round up its elegant look, the watch is fitted with dauphine hands and a blue anodized seconds hand that provides the ultimate contrast.
This watch is fitted with a dark brown alligator strap with pin buckle that is comfortable but somewhat short. Those with wrists larger than 7-7.25" will find it difficult to wear this watch unless the strap is secured on its last hole.
The Master Ultra Thin Perpetual is fitted with a display case back that allows for full view of the beautifully finished Jaeger-LeCoultre automatic calibre 868 composed of 336 parts, 46 jewels and which beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph providing a power reserve of 43 hours when fully wound.
On the wrist, the watch wears very light —it weighs only 77 grams— and true to its size. The wrist presence and understated elegance of this timepiece is unparalleled. A fascinating perpetual calendar that wears as nice with a suit, as it does with casual clothes, which is something we don't say often about timepieces that are this elegant. This watch is also available in white gold —featuring a silver moon on the moon phase disc— and in stainless steel which is the best value for your money when it comes to a perpetual calendar with this pedigree priced right under $20,000 USD.
Sticker Price $31,600 USD. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
Insider: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph Aston Martin. A Very Sporty, Yet Extremely Elegant Timepiece Bearing Aston Martin's Logo.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph ref. 153847N is another one of the creations presented by this manufacture as part of their partnership with automaker Aston Martin. While the Master Chronograph bears a small Aston Martin logo on the dial and the case back, this watch still maintains the clean and very classic look of all other Jaeger-LeCoultre timepieces.
This chronograph is fitted with a stainless steel case measuring 40mm in diameter with perfectly balanced proportions. The Master Chronograph ref. 153847N is fitted with a convex black matte dial with applied hour-markers, recessed chronograph registers and dauphine hands. The configuration of the dial includes an hour-chrono register at 9, a minute-chrono register at 3, running seconds at 6, a date aperture between 4 and 5 o'clock and a pulsometer scale around the edge of the dial. The red accents adjacent to the minute markers along with the red writing on the word 'Automatique' provide the perfect amount of contrast to a beautifully balanced dial. It is important to mention that under certain type of light the dial almost appears like an anthracite dial ranging from deep black to graphite gray.
The case features a polished bezel and polished lugs with a brushed satin finish on the caseband. These alternating finishes create the perfect symphony on this very well designed timepiece. This watch is fitted with rectangular chrono pushers that are easy to press and a properly sized crown that is very easy to grip and use when setting the date and time.
The Master Chronograph is fitted with a solid case back that is nicely engraved and finished with very appealing visual elements including a small Aston Martin logo. The beating heart inside this watch is the automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 751A/1 composed of 277 parts, 39 jewels, double-barrel and that provides a power reserve of 65 hours when fully wound. The movement beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph and the watch is waterproof rated to a depth of 50 meters.
This watch comes fitted with a black alligator strap with double-folding clasp that is very comfortable and somewhat stiff when you first put it on. We are confident that after a few days of wearing this watch the strap will break-in nicely and it will become quite supple and malleable.
This Master Chronograph wears true to its size and perhaps slightly bigger like a 41mm watch. The wrist presence of this watch is sporty, yet elegant and a must have if you like chronographs —especially considering the appealing price of this timepiece. Also available in 18K rose gold and with different dial options without the Aston Martin logo on it.
Sticker Price $10,400 USD. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.
