Jaeger Lecoultre Master Chronograph Sector Dial, the true story behind the watch.
amanico
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
Comments:
Alkiro1 September 28th, 2017-07:16
“Experience always wins the day” 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 September 28th, 2017-07:44
Very interesting find! 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 symme...
amanico September 28th, 2017-10:12
Thanks for your feedback. I know that the hands were discussed at JLC and that they tried a version with hands filled with luminova, but... I was told it was not very convincing as an outcome... Best, Nicolas
Clavi October 4th, 2017-01:53
Then, maybe they should have considered other hands altogether :-) form and function, you know..... If you are going for a 1930's inspired sector dial, then why consider luminous on hands ? makes absolutely no sense. At least make hands consistant with intended design spirit !
Clavi October 4th, 2017-01:51
Nothing 'modern' about those hands Those hollow-hands are actually mock-ups of the luminous, radium-filled hands that were common in the 1940's, so normally not 'skeleton' per say (they were always meant to be filled with luminous). There is nothing very modern in them, appart from the inc...
Bill September 28th, 2017-07:55
Looks almost like a re edition. Great inspiration - no need to re invent the wheel. Great report. Thx
amanico September 28th, 2017-10:12
Great inspiration, indeed. I wondered where they took their inspiration, now we know.
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amanico
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amanico
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