From the early 90’s to now, Jaeger LeCoultre Master collection, including the newer Ultra Thin series, has provided the true pillar that sits in line with the Reverso rather than beneath it. For 2020, the Grande Maison has discreetly delivered upgrades to two models to enhance rather than reimagine.
Firstly, the Master Calendar enjoys perhaps its third iteration but definitely the best in tiers of layout & movement.A reworked in-house (obviously!) calibre 866 provides the power for the complications on show. Using silicon as is the norm these days & titanium as well as specialised oils, the updated movement is built to be more durable & reliable – music to the ears of those who dislike service intervals.
Removing power reserve indicators and offset apertures,Jaeger-LeCoultre have chosen for a more classical approach to the calendar layout, which quite simply works. Month & Day apertures sit above a super realistic moonphase display that is hyper accurate as one would expect. However, the real magic here is the date wheel, that quietly sits around the dial. Those with good memories will remember the Master Tourbillon that previously enjoyed this clever addition, where so as not to disturb the viewing of the moonphase, the date jumps from 15 to 16 over this aperture. Horology is still art and this little addition puts us back in the gallery.
A perfect 40mm diameter and typically refined thickness ensure all the drama is deservedly reserved for the dial. The steel variant is available for pre-order while a new Rose Gold (using proprietary alloys) will be released shortly.
Reference: Q4148420 – RRP £9,800.00 inc VAT
Retuning a classic is not easy.Take too much away or add too much and you destroy the essence of its popularity. The Master Date falls in this category enjoying a fanbase firmly of those who like classical, discreet and functional timepieces that nonetheless show an enviable know how once you dig a little deeper. Basically, if you know, you know.
The curves remain, the date is legible as ever & the numerals and batons applied over a smooth silvered base are as elegant as they could be.The real work here has been done to the reworked Jaeger_LeCoultre Calibre 899 again incorporating silicon for durability and a longer main spring to offer a longer power reserve of 70 hours – it is always refreshing to return to work on Monday knowing your watch just kept on sweeping away during its weekend downtime.
Again, a 40mm Stainless Steel option is available for pre-order while a Gold one will follow. The new tan calf straps pair well with the silver faces and blue details. Without setting the world alight with these particular releases, that will no doubt come; these lovely updates add more timber to the Master Collection fire.
Reference: Q4018420 – RRP £6,000.00 inc VAT
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