Jaeger-LeCoultre updates an icon
In 2020, Jaeger‑LeCoultre unveils a subtle refresh of one its most enduring and iconic collections, the Master Control series. Designed for the urban sophisticate, Jaeger‑LeCoultre’s designers have harnessed and modernised the Maison’s classical design codes to create a refined yet entirely contemporary aesthetic. Combining modern versatility with exceptional reliability, these new models are sure to impress even the most discerning connoisseur.
It is our pleasure to present to you here two new models joining the 2020 collection, which are available now from Watches of Switzerland Australia. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Date and the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Calendar, read on for a detailed breakdown on what makes these pieces so special.
JAEGER-LECOULTRE MASTER CONTROL CALENDAR
An icon in modern watchmaking, the Master Control Calendar draws design inspiration from the original Jaeger-LeCoultre triple calendar watches with moonphase display of the 1950s. In the upper part of its dial, two discreet apertures indicate the day on the left and the month on the right. At 6 o’clock, the moon phase appears in a delicate staging surrounded by its small second timer. On this silver gray decor, Arabic numerals, rhodium-plated hour-markers, and Dauphine hands stand out clearly around the dial.
This model also introduces a clever mechanical twist in the form of a new jumping date complication. To ensure the wearer’s view of the beautifully executed moon phase display is never obscured, the central, red-tipped indicator instantaneously leaps between the 15th and 16th day of the month. The new generation, in-house Calibre 866 also benefits from a series of other upgrades, including the use of silicon parts. It too now delivers a 70-hour power reserve and is visible through a sapphire glass case back. As with the Master Control Date, this model is worn on a new, tan-coloured Novonappa® calf leather strap and benefits from a Presto Spring lug attachment and a simple clip for removing and refitting the deployant buckle.
Purchase or enquire about the Master Control Calendar here.
JAEGER-LECOULTRE MASTER CONTROL DATE
Displaying the time and date only, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Date is an exercise in elegant understatement. Presented in a 40mm round stainless steel case, it measures a svelte 8.78mm thick, allowing it to comfortably slide away under your cuff. Hours and minutes are displayed centrally by dauphine-shaped hands filled with a subtle sliver of lume, whilst the central seconds hand is in contrasting blued steel. Arabic numerals appear at 6, 9 and 12 o’clock, with elongated, triangular-shaped indexes marking the remaining hours. The only exception, of course, being at 3 o’clock, where the date appears through an aperture. Lume plots mark the the periphery of the sunray-brushed, silvered grey dial, ensuring the time can still be read even in low light conditions.
Inside the case is the in-house Calibre 899, which has been extensively re-worked by Jaeger-LeCoultre’s skilled watchmakers to optimise performance. Upgrades include a silicon escapement, a redesigned barrel and various energy-saving enhancements. All of which are visible through the sapphire glass case back. This results in a substantially increased power reserve of 70 hours. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Date is worn on a new, tan-coloured Novonappa® calf leather strap, which further enhances the contemporary appeal of this new model. Thanks to a Presto Spring lug attachment and a simple clip for removing and refitting the deployant buckle, the Novonappa® straps can be quickly changed, without the need for any tool.
Purchase or enquire about the Master Control Date here.
The Master Control Collection
Since its introduction in 1992, the Master Control name has been synonymous with technical excellence and stylistic restraint. The first collection to bear the brand’s pioneering ‘1000 Hours Control’ certification – from which the collection’s name is derived – it became the standard setter for rigorous quality control. This demanding process tests the entire cased-up watch (not just its movement) and set a new benchmark when introduced. Over the years it has continually evolved in response to technological advances and today continues to be one of the watch industry’s most stringent testing protocols.
The collection draws its inspiration from the classic round timepieces made by the Grande Maison in the fifties. Key design hallmarks include round 40mm cases with a mix of polished and brushed surfaces. Thin outwardly sloping bezels. And sunray-brushed dials with applied triangular indexes, Arabic numerals and dauphine-shaped hands.
Both timepieces shown above are available from Watches of Switzerland boutiques now and are offered with up to 8 years International Limited Warranty. Please contact us today to book an appointment to view these and other exceptional models from Jaeger-LeCoultre.