Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph Sector Dial History

amanico · 2017-09-28T07:04:53Z

Uncover the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph Sector Dial's vintage inspiration. Explore its design, heritage, and collector debates.

amanico

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

73 replies19953 views6 photos

Amanico uncovers the fascinating historical inspiration behind Jaeger-LeCoultre's Master Chronograph Sector Dial, a piece unveiled at SIHH 2017 to celebrate the Master Line's 25th anniversary. Through discussions with the Heritage Gallery, amanico reveals that the contemporary design directly references a vintage JLC split-seconds pocket watch from the 1940s, offering a deeper appreciation for the new collection's roots.

At the SIHH this year, Jaeger Lecoultre unveiled three new versions from the Master Line, the Master Control, the Master Géographique, and the Master Chronograph, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this family.

Three new versions, let's say in a more accurate way, three new dials, with less functions for the Chronograph ( two sub dials instead of three ) and the the Géographique ( date and power reserve indicator ), at a lower price.

When I discovered them, I wondered if the Manufacture imagined this dial for this threesome or if they referred to something belonging to their past.

I asked to see these three watches again, and to discuss that with the Heritage Gallery.

And... There is something to be shared!

Jaeger Lecoultre clearly took the inspiration for this pocket watch, which is a chronograph... A Rattrapante, from the 40's, housing a Valjoux movement.

It was a surprise for me, as I can guess that it is a surprise for you, now.

We are very close to the dial of the pocket watch, with the Master Chronograph. Even the blue tachymeter is here. As well as the Two Tone dial.

Here are some fresh and better pictures I took at the Manufacture.

I absolutely love the 2 sub dials configuration, but I regret the pointed skeleton and empty hands. I would have much preferred the leaf hands of the pocket watch, much more elegant, from my point of view.

Here is a side by side picture, to better show you the ressemblance...

Of course, you will find the Cal 751 beating inside, which is automatic. Less sexy than a manual winding one, but much more affordable than a manual winding Rattrapante.

Needless to say that among the three sector dials unveiled this year, the Chronograph is my favorite. The Master Control Date would have been my first choice if it didn't have this date which ruins, in my opinion, the visual outcome.

Too bad, indeed, since this is, in my opinion, a good looking dial we have here. Another detail, the word automatic, which was not necessary, in my opinion, but not at the point to be a deal breaker.

Looking forward to reading your comments and thoughts,

Best.

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The subdials on the Master Chronograph Sector Dial appear too close to the center, suggesting the movement might have been designed for a smaller case, which impacts the overall dial balance in a 40mm case.
The absence of a running seconds hand on the Master Chronograph is a significant drawback for some, as it removes a basic indicator of the watch's operation and accuracy.
The skeletonized hands on the new Master Chronograph are actually mock-ups of 1940s radium-filled hands, and their application to a non-luminous dial is considered a poor design choice.
The new Master Chronograph Sector Dial looks even better in person than in photos and offers great relative value, despite minor critiques about the subdial font.
It is surprising that JLC did not officially reference the vintage pocket watch or other historical sector dial wristwatches during the launch of the new Master Line, given the brand's tendency to highlight its heritage.
The 'Vintage Gallery' mentioned by amanico refers to JLC's Heritage department, which plays a crucial role in preserving history and inspiring new designs.

The Discussion

Alkiro1

Sep 28, 2017

Very interesting to see that this modern style (at first sight) was not so modern. Now I better understand this subtle “Art déco” style. Best wishes Alkiro

Prodyutb

Sep 28, 2017

Now we know. Thanks. I agree with your take on the date time version. On the chrono though, the skeleton hands actually work very smartly, keeping everything open and legible. I am certain these hands would be quite difficult to produce with perfect symmetry, without modern technology, so it is a nice touch of modernity to a very period dial.

RG1

Sep 28, 2017

Good job for JLC. What a lovely dial....

watchthatman

Sep 28, 2017

Areas where you point out it could be better. One question I have - does the new chrono have a seconds hand for telling time, or is that only dedicated to the chrono function?

M@ster

Sep 28, 2017

I also agree with the word automatic on the dial and on watches in general these days, they should find a more modern synonyme for this word. Something more tech. and more advanced. Or just leave it blanc and only known by the people that know 😉 But some sort balances the dial als out.

MCG (Markus)

Sep 28, 2017

I do agree that is is a handsome dial. I also agree and would have preferred blued feuilles hands. It is a while ago, but I heard an interview with the ex. CEO of JLC - shortly before he left, or had to leave - that this version will not going to be continued...

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Jaeger-LeCoultre forum with 73 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph Sector Dial History

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum