Collection
Alfihar's exploration of Jaeger-LeCoultre's double-barrel movements offers a timely reflection on the brand's trajectory. This article delves into his personal connection with the Duomètre A Chronograph and the Master Minute Repeater, providing a collector's perspective on JLC's engineering prowess and recent design philosophy. His insights prompt a discussion on the balance between technical innovation and the 'poetic soul' of watchmaking.
It's been a while since I've posted anything...
Lack of time, other things that occupy me, few/no new models that make me vibrate... except vintages.
But here I am again with the desire to share these three JLC with double barrels.
The Duomètre A Chronograph - Reference 600 3 28 S (Q6013470)
A case of 42 mm in diameter and 13.58 mm thick, which I particularly like the shapes.
A magical black dial.
Some cool functions : Hour counter, Lightning second, Second, 60 seconds counter, Hour-Minute, 60 minutes counter, Double power reserve, Chronograph
It was my first Duomètre... even if this one is my second Duomètre A Chronograph.
It is also THE model for which the double barrel movement was created.
The Master Minute Repeater - Reference 151.T.67.S (Q164T450)
A great complication, classic, but with a modern and crazy look. I love it... A total kiff.
Moreover, it is a sound watch... And sounding watches are characteristic of Jaeger LeCoultre, which has made a name for itself with its Memovox, which I particularly like.
And this one sounds particularly good, not to mention that as French says "le ramage vaut le plumage" :
A polished grade 5 titanium case: a performance in itself because finally few manufactures dare to use this metal that is difficult to work (even more so in 2006).
Certainly, the size is not measured (44 mm wide / 15,8 mm thick).
Certainly I would have preferred a thinner case...
But it perfectly fits my wrist of 17.5 cm.
Moreover, a fully open dial that has a unique side for a Minute Repeater.
At first sight, it was not a watch in my codes (I like simple and black dials and I am not a big fan of skeleton dials: too busy for me).
But I don't know why... this one had an immediate wow effect on me.
Even worse, the more I look at it the more I like it: there is a lot to discover about this dial, its complexity and richness.
It varies enormously depending on the light. It is simply crazy, almost sensual. Perlages, anglages, brushed parts, everything is there.
The chromatic shades of gray are infinite, sometimes dark, sometimes bright, not to mention bluish screws, points of red, purple, ... it is for me fantastic.
And then there are these hammers that you can admire just under the skeleton hand of the torquemeter.
Even the hands are well chosen: skeletonized so as not to lose anything of the show offered by the dial and consistent with the modern design of the watch.
(Bracelet : Crédit Don Justino)
The case back, compared to the dial, is less surprising, less spectacular, simpler, but it reveals some nice details: "Cotes Soleillées" which receive a ruthenium finish, matching the dark look of the dial and converging towards the small balance.
Some will tell me that there is no German Silver Maillechort finish like on the platinum model... it is true that it would have been nice...
Nevertheless, I find that the movement remains at the height of the dial, not to mention that it animates a series of complications and functions rather cool: The minute repeater, of course, but also a power reserve of 15 days, and a Torquemeter (Complication? Not sure that it is one...).
The Duomètre A Lunar Calendar - Reference: 600.3.24. S (Q6043570)
We find here the 42 mm diameter and 13.58 mm thick case of the chrono.
We also find the magic black dial of the chrono, in this limited edition version, but with an inversion (Hour on the right versus on the left for the chrono) and a new variant (Moon Calendar).
You will say to me, why two Duometers... well, because I love the chrono and the QL... Moreover, if the Grande Maison had been consistent and had released a UTT with a black dial (which would have had an earthy side seen from space), well I would have taken it because I also like GMT/WT which are quite present in my collection...
Moreover, the chrono has a "sport" side, when the QL has a poetic side... It makes me think of the Petit Prince, this book of Saint Exupéry that you have to read regularly as it gives, each time; a different view on life ....
I see those who had read his sad story (Vis/vice caché...) telling me that I still have it...
Yes I admit it, I put it back on my wrist, even if the experience was very bitter with the JLC service and made me turn away from the Grande Maison for months... and watches too for that matter (For that reason and others...).
But beyond my anger against the morons who managed the case, JLC is the watches of my grandfather that I dreamed of as a child and that became mine when he left. It's also years of waiting for the novelties.... even if today I don't wait anymore because the magic doesn't work (Even for the last Reverso chrono.... and except for the pieces of very high watchmaking inaccessible given the number of copies produced and the lunar prices). It is passion in abundance, especially under the Jérôme Lambert era. It is finally vintages to fall in love (Even if I do not adhere to the communication and marketing that surrounded the release of "The Collectibles").
The trilogy... between dream and reality
Taken alone, these two barrel watches are magical... Put together, it touches the heaven... well for me. A chrono, a watch that rings and a date... a kind of waking dream.
And the final bouquet:
Sorry for the background noise... I couldn't do better with my iPhone...
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Minute Repeater, reference Q164T450, represents a highly complex offering within the Master Control collection, distinguished by its minute repeater complication. This reference showcases Jaeger-LeCoultre's expertise in high horology, integrating a sophisticated chiming mechanism into a contemporary design. It stands as a testament to the brand's technical capabilities in crafting grand complications, appealing to collectors seeking advanced mechanical artistry.
This particular reference features a case crafted from titanium, measuring 44 millimeters in diameter. It houses a manual-winding movement, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 947, which provides a substantial power reserve of 15 days. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, allowing a clear view of the dial and offering durability. The design emphasizes both the technical complexity and the legibility of its indications.
As a minute repeater, this model appeals to collectors who value traditional watchmaking and acoustic complications. Its titanium construction offers a lighter wear experience compared to precious metals, while the extended power reserve enhances its practicality. The Master Minute Repeater series highlights Jaeger-LeCoultre's commitment to producing watches that combine innovative engineering with classic horological functions, positioning this reference as a significant piece for serious collectors of complicated timepieces.
A time unfortunately passed when Jaeger LeCoultre made the watch enthusiast that I am dream...
Continue to wear them in the very Best of your health ! Best, PS: A little Q, out of curiousity and if allowed - were you the privileged person to pick-up (or lend) Nicos Titanium Master Minute Repeater, or are/were you the lucky and happy person to own all three of these marvels yourself, as depicted in the post. Either way, a real pleasure read !
It is indeed the MR of Nicolas that I have the chance to have on my wrist for a few days. If my post suggests otherwise I'm sorry. It's not mine (yet)...😬 Only the two duo are mine (yet) 😂 The MR will return to Nico’s wrist tomorrow after a week on mine. Best Ø
As Humble Me, I deem myself lucky, to „at least“ own the A Chronographe, which I dearly love ! Would be most desirable & appreciated if LGM would come up with a new Duomètre family member.. Thx again for your fine picture- lineup and your remarks ! Best & Cheers !
News on this point should not be long in coming... Let's hope that we will not be disappointed... because the wait has been long... PS Having a Duomètre is already a chance ! Best Ø
This thread is active on the Jaeger-LeCoultre forum with 28 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.
Join the Discussion →
