A Brief History of Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris
A Legendary Heritage
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris is part of the brand’s mythology. Created in the late 1960s, the oversized sports watch carried a mechanical alarm within a waterproof case — a pioneering feature at the time. Looking at the history of the Polaris, its origins can be traced back to the 1962 Memovox Polaris prototype, which introduced this innovative underwater alarm specifically designed for divers. These have become highly sought after due to their rarity and historical significance. Original vintage Polaris watches from the 1960s are prized in auctions, reflecting the model’s enduring legacy.
Modern Versatility and Design
Today, Polaris is a family in its own right. For us, the Polaris Date, as pictured, is the most versatile of the series. It features a solid 43mm stainless steel case with a slightly domed sapphire crystal. Despite its size, the case is not so deep as to appear ungainly—Jaeger-LeCoultre is nothing if not classy. The case finish is a sophisticated blend of polished and brushed surfaces, adding to its refined aesthetic.
Comfort and Wearability
An often-underappreciated point is that no matter how nice a sports watch is, it still has to hug the wrist comfortably. The integrated rubber strap with a butterfly clasp, which is self-adjustable, is perfectly proportioned to fit even the most slender wrist securely and comfortably. This strap also features a subtle Clous de Paris pattern, adding a touch of haute horlogerie to its sporty character.
The Dial: A Signature Feature
One of the main selling points of this collection is the dial. Immediately recognisable as a Polaris with oversized numerals and hour markers filled with Super-LumiNova® lume, it offers superb legibility in all lighting conditions. The central disc is smooth, while the track that holds the applied markers has an almost rice-paper effect that we can only imagine would be lovely to touch. Finally, the inside flange is a darker black, which doubles as the internal rotating bezel, controlled via the crown, allowing for timing functions without compromising the watch’s sleek profile.
Movement and Technical Excellence
Powered by a self-winding Manufacture calibre 898/1, the watch offers reliable precision and a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. It is water-resistant to 100 meters and built to withstand daily wear in most environments, yet it would not look out of place paired with a suit. The sapphire caseback reveals the finely decorated movement inside, showcasing Jaeger-LeCoultre’s dedication to craftsmanship.
Heritage Meets Modern Craftsmanship
The Polaris watch collection also benefits from modern touches that pay homage to its heritage, such as vintage-inspired Super-LumiNova® that evokes the original 1960s models. The triple-finish dial architecture — combining sunray, grained, and opaline finishes — adds depth and texture, elevating the watch beyond typical sports timepieces. When it comes to wearability, the Polaris Date’s 43mm case is balanced by relatively short lugs and a flexible rubber strap, making it comfortable for a variety of wrist sizes. Its versatility is further enhanced by the option to swap straps — leather or metal bracelets can easily transform the watch from sporty casual to elegant formal wear.
Experience It Yourself
Ultimately, the best test is on your wrist, so we invite you to visit our Boutique and try this or many other Jaeger-LeCoultre watches to discover your own favourite.
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