Jaeger-LeCoultre 101 Snowdrop & Bangle: High Jewelry Meets Micro-Horology
Complications

Jaeger-LeCoultre 101 Snowdrop & Bangle: High Jewelry Meets Micro-Horology

By amanico · Aug 10, 2020 · 38 replies
amanico
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Amanico, a discerning collector not typically drawn to gem-set timepieces, makes a rare exception to highlight Jaeger-LeCoultre's 101 Snowdrop and Bangle. His detailed post illuminates why these creations transcend mere jewelry, emphasizing their exceptional horological content. This article delves into the intricate craftsmanship and the enduring legacy of the Calibre 101, showcasing its significance in these exquisite new models.




Even at Jaeger Lecoultre, they know that I am not a big fan of paved watches. I almost never take pictures of them, truth to be told. 

But here, I made an exception. Why? Because here, it is not only about jewelry! 

Indeed, not only these two watches are a ture challenge in terms of fine jewelry, and you will soon understand why, but they are also, or should I say mainly, an object of horology. 

These two new models house the smallest calibre ever made, the Cal 101, which is 14 x 4, 8 mm big and 3, 4 mm high. Yes, you read well, 14 x 4, 8 mm big... A volume of 0, 2 Cm Cube!

To give you an idea of its size, here are two pictures:





And what adds to its extraordinary challenge, this Calibre was made since... 1929! 

It beats at 21, 600 alternances per hour, and offers a power reserve of 33 hours. It is made of 98 parts, versus the 78 parts of the original Cal 101.

That being said, let's see each of these marvels. 

- THE 101 SNOWDROP:  



Diamonds everywhere... 

With a case which is only 18, 35 mm x 5, 98 mm, don't expect to read the time easily. The purpose is elsewhere, here. It is made for ladies for who having a watch with great horology is important, in a jewelry execution. Let's guess that these ladies will spend more time admiring time than reading it on its delicious opaline dial.

Made in rose gold, this watch is set with 904 diamonds ( yes, you read it well, 904 ) for a total of 20, 4 Carat. 



Isn't that close up terrific? 



Can you imagine the skill it requires to insert all these diamonds? I had the opportunity and the privilege to visit the jewelry workshop at the Manufacture and to admire the work of these artists, it is unbelievable. 

To give you an idea of that challenge, here are some other pictures of the work in progress: 









As a bonus, some drawings of the 101 Snowdrop: 




- THE 101 BANGLE: 

Even more extravagant, the 101 Bangle certainly is, with its less classic, not to say spectacular shape: 





The case has the same dimensions as the 101 Snowdrop ( 18, 35 x 5, 98 mm ), with the same observations about the opaline dial sunk into this ocean of diamonds. 

The whole watch, in rose gold too, has even more diamonds, here 996, representing 19, 7 Carats.

I would say that the name-Bangle- is very well chosen, even if it doesn't give an exact idea of what it is, in reality. It is much more than a bracelet, it is a real work of Art, in its shapes. 

Like for the Snowdrop, the diamonds setting is spectacular: 







And the legibility is not better, either, but, once again, this is not the purpose of this watch. 

Here are some drawings: 




If I had to choose one among these 2, I would favor the Bangle, for its superior artistic dimension. 

I could take some quick pictures: 

The Bangle alone:



And the 101 Bangle on the 101 Snowdrop: 



The only drawback, but it was expectable, the price, almost half a Gyrotourbillon Five, but I can reasonably bet that the final clients won't be the same... 

Looking forward to reading your comments and thoughts,

Best,

Nicolas











About the Jaeger LeCoultre Master Mariner Memovox Ref. MemovoxE877

The Jaeger LeCoultre Master Mariner Memovox reference E877 represents a distinct period for the Memovox line, characterized by its integrated bracelet design and a more contemporary aesthetic for its era. This reference is part of the Master Mariner series, which generally denoted models with enhanced water resistance and robust construction, positioning it as a sportier offering within the broader Memovox family known for its mechanical alarm function. The E877 stands out for its specific case shape and dial configurations that differentiate it from earlier or later Memovox iterations.

This particular reference typically features a stainless steel case, often with a cushion or tonneau profile that was fashionable in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It houses an automatic winding movement, specifically the Jaeger LeCoultre Caliber 916, which integrates the alarm complication. The crystal is commonly acrylic, contributing to its vintage character. The case dimensions are generally around 39mm in width, providing a substantial presence on the wrist without being overly large by modern standards.

For collectors, the Memovox E877 is appealing due to its unique design language and the integration of the alarm function within a Master Mariner case. Its distinctive appearance, often with vibrant dial colors and an integrated bracelet, makes it a recognizable piece from a specific design period. It appeals to those interested in Jaeger LeCoultre's innovative alarm watches and the brand's exploration of sportier designs during the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal. 916
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
39mm
Dial
Blue
Crystal
Hesalite

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
LM
lm6
Aug 10, 2020

The legibility on the other hand...... But of course I know that is not of importance in a watch like this.

PO
PoyFR
Aug 10, 2020

Never leaving you indifferent. I am still dreaming (for my wife) of their jeweled Watches présentation at La Mostra du Venezia (I think it was 2009-2010), I was jaw dropped and still I’m

KE
kev09
Aug 10, 2020

It’s really fascinating to see how these beautiful pieces are made up. The skill is amazing. The drawings are very charming too; they would look nice framed as a decorative set on a wall. Thanks for showing these. Regards Kev.

FA
FabR
Aug 10, 2020

...but I don't mind them at all on a woman, with the obvious understanding that they are, first and foremost, jewels -- though with the added bonus of a top watch brand behind them, hence also nontrivial horologically ;-) Cheers.

CA
cazalea
Aug 10, 2020

Does the Bangle fold or flex in some way? I would go for the Snowdrop. I have an anniversary soon ... (counting on fingers

JU
Jurry
Aug 10, 2020

The weird thing is that I love these paved watches but my wife doesn’t like them at all (which is good for my wallet)

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