Jaeger-LeCoultre Triple Date Moonphase Calibre 486

amanico · 2015-02-02T00:27:15Z

Discover the rare 1949 Jaeger-LeCoultre Triple Date Moonphase, a tribute to Jacques Lecoultre. Explore its Calibre 486 movement and unique design.

Amanico presents a rare and captivating Jaeger-LeCoultre Triple Date Moonphase, a 1949 tribute to Jacques Lecoultre. This article delves into the unique design elements and mechanical intricacies of this seldom-seen reference, offering a detailed look at a significant piece from JLC's heritage gallery.

I bet that you didn't often see this watch, which was released in 1949 in hommage to Jacques Lecoultre, who passed away one year before.

I only saw 4 in the flesh during all these years, and this one belongs to the Heritage Gallery.

The size of this rectangular case is 41 x 23 mm, which is enough for a normal wrist.

Pretty original with these thin rectangles dig into the case each five minutes, a detail which gives a lot of personality to this reference.

There were Lecoultre and Jaeger Lecoultre versions, made in Gold Filled or 14 Kt Gold, only.

The dial is superb, in this configuration.

The movement is the Cal 486 A, manual winding, beating at 18 000 alternances per hour.

Three pushers, one for the month at 2, o clock, for the moon at 8 o clock, and for the day at 10.

The Heritage Gallery told me that there were only 5 000 movements made, I am not sure that this movement was exclusively housed in this watch. I have to check that last point.

Here is a 14 Kt Gold Lecoultre:

Best,

Nicolas.

Key Points from the Discussion

This watch is a wonderful reference and a touching tribute to Jacques Lecoultre, humanizing the manufacture's story through its unbroken family continuity from 1833 to 1948.
The Calibre 486, while primarily associated with this model, also appeared in at least two other references: a U.S.-market LeCoultre round case model and a 1983 150th anniversary Jubilee edition.
The watch's unique design, particularly the thin rectangular indentations on the case, contributes significantly to its personality and charm.
The watch's elegance and unmistakable balance, combined with its horological spirit, make it a highly desirable piece for collectors.
The existence of such a piece highlights the deep and rich history of Jaeger-LeCoultre, often revealing models previously unknown to collectors.
The watch's size, 41 x 23 mm, is considered appropriate for a normal wrist, contributing to its overall elegance.
A modern re-release of this classic and rare bird would be highly appreciated by collectors.

The Discussion

amanico

Feb 2, 2015

Thanks for looking, Ming. [nt]

blomman Mr Blue

Feb 2, 2015

Such a beauty! :)

Love it! :) Thank you for showing us this one. Best Blomman

amanico

Feb 2, 2015

One detail I like a lot is these rectangles all around the case.

They give a lot of character, I find. If they made it in white metal, I would have probably hunted one. Thanks for looking, Blomman. Nicolas

jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)

Feb 2, 2015

A very nice and ultra rare Triple Date Moonphase

Thanks for sharing Nico! I never knew this piece existed. Such is the history of this grand maison! A long and deep history cheers robin

amanico

Feb 2, 2015

You can easily loose the track of the whole vintage production, indeed.

Which is pretty good, as you often discover models you totally ignored. And some of them are Worth to be rediscovered! Best, Robin. Nicolas

watchthatman

Feb 2, 2015

Thanks Nicolas, very nice! I love center date hands on revesos. This is the only reverso

I've seen with a truly round dial in a rectangular case. Many others have a recessed center circle, but this is a different animal entirely.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Triple Date Moonphase Calibre 486

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation