Jaeger-LeCoultre

It wasn't too long ago that Jerome Lambert oversaw JLC, and with his hands at the helm, JLC had a string of watches that were down right SEXY. Bold, brash, unashamed, SEXY. The Extreme series, with shock-absorber cases and case-dependent strap/bracelet sw... 

The JLC Extreme Lab 2 is one of the most sexy watches ever made in my eyes! Absolute perfection for me ...  

Waiting for warm weather to arrive so I can break mine out of the bank. Always good to go a few months missing it to confirm it is still wanted.

I had hoped this movement would appear in a cleaner version around 44mm and in the sub $20k range. -Dean

I’m ok with this big old boring watch today ... Cazalea ...  

but most of the recent, flatter Reversos are a bit boring. Pretty, but not heart string pullers. -Dean

The Master Compressor line was/is sexy or at least unique. It was a clear differentiator. Instead JLC has gone all vanilla. I think they have the opportunity to be a hot brand but their marketing strategy leaves me wanting.

But all that in what? 4 years? We need more! Best, Nicolas

up to 16 novelties each year. Granted, it was a bit too much at times, but there were always 3 or 4 of those that kept us salivating. -Dean

First of all, the Master Compressor Chronograph Ceramic (GMT) is still on the catalog (just checked): This one, was released during the SIHH 2017. I was never a big fan of this huge crown and there are better ways to assure water resistance. Now the Extre...  

A special limited Duometre Rattrapante in steel with black dial, yes I would be convinced. But even better would be the titanium/vanadium alloy from EL II and make a Duometre case for it. That would be a massive act of courage by JLC. Otherwise Pt if a bi... 

Because of the movement, that is not made of precious metal, I don't think that a steel or, better, ceramic case will make it more sporty without downgrading the overall product. Cheers, Nilo

But yes in the same scenario as how FPJ has introduced their new Rattrapante back at SIHH: titanium, RG and Pt versions. It does not cheapen the line for me. It just provides a different look & feel and still remains a premium product.

A rattrapante with a twist please.

I very much welcome a new technical HM and of course it better be spectacular! It’s time.

and LOVE the Extreme Lab, but the Ceramic Compressor, which carries the same movement as my Navy Seals Chrono GMT, only has 1 Compressor crown, not 3, so I consider it "half baked." Dean

The new Polaris collection is certainly very nicely done, and it blends the classic and sporting cues of the brand effectively. It is however a great shame that the compressors are now all 'retired'. I would have thought the marketplace could withstand bo... 

just as I know many who "hate" the Nautilus, there are those for whom the signature look of the Compressors - even in the 41.5mm variants - just sang to them. In a world full of 50 Fathoms/Submariner imitators, I felt like at least JLC was on to something... 

but their case designs are not very successful ( except the reverso obviously)

You don't see any true Compressors laying around in retailers' stocks any longer, but you do other pieces. -Dean

do they sell it these days?

On top of affordable and unusually complications, JLC should bring back some sexy colours (with no co branding please). chelsea dualmatic Picture credit to Sothebys Master Compressor Extreme Chrono Orange Crush Picture credit to Watchuwant Amvox 1 R Pictu...  

because their ears turned to the Chinese market and flipped the bird to the rest of the Western Hemisphere. -Dean

Even though they have released some intesting pieces since like the Extreme Lab. I miss the Master Compressor serie and specially the Extreme serie. It is a shame, that all the good features that were inclueded in the serie has not seen continuity. Fortun...  

This watch doesn't emulate any other watch in the industry. "It's a JLC, sir!" The LE editions only added to the desirability. Nice piece! -Dean

Hi Dean, Great to read you again. Completely agree that it seems everything at the moment in their line below the price of the Duometre is completely 'meh'. I find the new Polaris range competent but boring. Despite the fact that I didn't personally ever ... 

In this difficult period, brands are taking less risks and offer watches with obvious marketing targets. In the end, the whole is too consensual and most of the time uninspired. JLC is not better nor worse than some. But we have higher expectations toward... 

they're willing to take risks! -Dean

...what do they have in common? Not much other than willingness to test limits and take design risks.... and volume growth of 10%+ over the last few tough years for the industry at large. A lesson to be learned, JLC? Best, Tim

But it might not be so pretty

was the TT Geophysic I hope they make a modern version of the cal. 488/SBr handwind movement and put it in a TT Mark 11 or even a new Geophysic model! ...  

Best, David ...