JLC MUT Jubilee vs. FPJ Chronomètre Bleu

Alex25 · 2017-05-13T01:17:41Z

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Jubilee vs. F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu: a detailed comparison of two distinct luxury watches. Which one wins?

Alex25

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

52 replies9521 views3 photos

Alex25 initiates a compelling discussion, seeking community input on a challenging choice between two distinct horological masterpieces: the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Jubilee and the F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu. His detailed comparison of each watch's attributes, from movement and materials to aesthetics and serviceability, provides a robust framework for collectors to weigh in.

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Greetings, friends!

I created this post in order to hear your thoughts about 2 different watches: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master ultra thin Jubilee and F.P. Journe Chronometre Bleu.

Let's start from the JLC
1) Really thin - 4,05mm is an achievement. Only selected few watchmakers can produce a watch this thin. It is even believed to be produced in their grand complication department, though I doubt it.
2) The price is quite bearable keeping in mind it is platinum.
3) The dial is simple with printed indices. Definitely not a marvel.
4) Movement is a reliable ref. 849 which was praised by Walt Odets to be robust, simple and refined. At the same time the movement is only 20mm in width that is quite small for a 39mm watch. Its power reserve of 35 hours is also a bit scarce.
5) The watch itself is quite durable and it does not bend at ease.
6) It is a "limited" production of 880 pieces, quite rare but at the same time not so sought out in the market.
7) JLC is a great brand that can be officially serviced almost everywhere.
8) The aesthetics of the watch is plain (case, dial, hands), but maybe it is a good thing as it will never be outdated or get out of my taste (usually you get tired of bright things easy).
9. The case back is solid. It adds durability and hides what we buy watches for - movement.

Now for FPJ
1) Beautiful dial made from 7 layers. It plays in the sun and changes color in different lights. A marvel but may have tiny defects (I explored this watch in store and it had a tiny dot on the dial). I've read somewhere that 60% of dials are thrown away as their production is very challenging.
2) The case is not made of precious metals that is great as I do not have to pay for luxury I do not need. Tantalum is an interesting metal. The case looks quite interesting: its dark color is rarely seen in a dress watch. Also it is supposed to be durable and difficult to polish.
3) The movement is beautiful. I cannot say it is sublime, but 2 power barrels that work for accuracy, 65 hours of power reserve and great finish (maybe a bit machined, but I do not know for sure) create a great overall impression. The movement is made of gold which is quite nice.
4) I have no information how robust is the movement. Let's keep in mind that the wheel train is hidden and it does not add up for durability. I heard that FPJ might be not very reliable but I have no proof for that.
5) The watch is thin. Around 8,5 mm and sits well on wrist.
6) The price is more or less fair but less convincing as the JLC.
7) Service is a question. I suppose that it can be quite a challenging task as only FPJ manufacture can do it in a proper way.
8) The watch is produced in limited numbers and is quite sought after. It the same time it is not a rarity.

What are your thoughts friends? What is a better option? I love them both but I shall stay on one of them.

Best regards,
Alexey

About the F.P. Journe Chronomètre Souverain Ref. chronometre

The F.P. Journe Chronomètre Souverain represents the foundational timepiece within the brand's Souveraine collection. This reference demonstrates the manufacture's approach to precision timekeeping through manual winding mechanics, positioned as a core offering in F.P. Journe's lineup.

The 40mm case is executed in 18k rose gold with a fixed bezel configuration. A sapphire crystal protects the silver dial, while the manual-winding caliber 1304 movement provides an 80-hour power reserve. The timepiece features 30-meter water resistance and is paired with a leather strap. Production commenced in 2000.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking F.P. Journe's mechanical execution in a fundamental three-hand configuration. The substantial power reserve and manual winding caliber position this model for enthusiasts who appreciate traditional watchmaking approaches within the Souveraine series framework.

Specifications

Caliber: 1304

Case: 18k Rose Gold

Diameter: 40 mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The F.P. Journe Chronomètre Bleu is widely regarded as superior in terms of movement quality and finish, often winning chronometric competitions, though its unique dial color may make it less versatile than the JLC.
While the JLC MUT Jubilee is technically impressive for its thinness and platinum case, some argue it lacks the unique 'specialness' of the F.P. Journe, especially if one already owns a dressy Master Control.
The JLC Caliber 849 is praised for its robust, simple, and refined design, with the Jubilee model offering exceptional value for a platinum ultra-thin watch that is easily serviceable globally.
F.P. Journe's production numbers are significantly lower than JLC's, contributing to better residual value and a rarer sighting in the wild, despite past concerns about reliability being largely unfounded for the Chronomètre Bleu.
The JLC's ultra-thinness is a marvel, and its future repairability is certain, with some appreciating the dial's paper texture, while the F.P. Journe's rose gold movement speaks to haute horlogerie.
A collector who owns both notes that while they love the F.P. Journe more for its visible movement, they tend to wear the JLC ultra-thin more often, highlighting a practical aspect of ownership.

The Discussion

Mr Glass

May 13, 2017

FPJ IMO

This is not an apples to apples decision as you highlighted - very different propositions. I love JLC. But for me the MUT in precious metal is not much more special for me than the standard Master Control. The Journe with its unmistakeable layout, hands, crown, numerals font looks a lot more special. Maybe I think this way because I already have a pretty dressy Master Control (so that itch was scratched already).

Alex25

May 13, 2017

Agree

I do agree that in not precious metal the watch would even more interesting. But it thinness is mesmerizing.

riverside / Henry

May 13, 2017

For me, the JLC.

1. Ultra thin itself is still considered as complication. 2. Its movement is proven to be reliable. 3. Personal preference - most important.

Alex25

May 13, 2017

Thank you for your opinion

Thinness is nowadays a rare complication as almost everyone is trying to be big and screaming. One thing that bothers me - too small movement.

Alkiro1

May 13, 2017

I'd go for the FPJ. Much more desirable in my opinion but I'm slightly biased as I want one. I think it's less "boring" than the JLC but it's just my opinion

Best wishes Alkiro

Alex25

May 13, 2017

Thanks)

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About the F.P. Journe Chronomètre Souverain Ref. chronometre

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

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