New Release
Ampurist provides an exclusive look into Jaeger-LeCoultre's New York launch event for the Geophysic True Second and World Time models. The article captures the sophisticated atmosphere of the unveiling, from the intimate dinner at the Clock Tower to the simultaneous global presentation of the new timepieces. Ampurist highlights the design evolution and key features of these significant additions to the Geophysic collection.
Last week, amid the first real signs of Fall, Jaeger-LeCoultre brought together members of the New York watch scene for the grand unveiling of the two brand new additions to the Geophysic collection. As bloggers, writers and enthusiasts began to fill the Jaeger-LeCoultre boutique, 701 Madison Avenue buzzed alive with energy. The entire evening was shrouded in a cloud of mystery with the only exception being that the party was in honor of two brand new models. The invitation included one hint: "Intimate Dinner... Location to be revealed at the boutique" and just when the boutique began to transform into a post-work cocktail party, guests were whisked away in black shuttles to the next location, the Clock Tower at the Edition Hotel.
Jaeger-LeCoultre is a brand known for its classic design and remarkable elevated sophistication. To me, the JLC Reverso has become one of the most recognizable models in watch history along with the Royal Oak and Nautilus. With the introduction to the Geophysic True Second and the World Time, the brand continues to pave the way to the young professional's heart. Upon arriving at the Clock Tower, guests were seated at five tables, each one anchored by a representative of the brand. With a prix fixe menu and unlimited wine, the dinner began to evolve into a supper club in which members of the watch world had become a part of (think Soho House for watch lovers). Ranging from recent vacations to swapping instagram handles and hashtags, Jaeger-LeCoultre created an experience many in the room hadn't felt in a very long time.
As the clock struck 9, the room began to quiet down as the revealing of the two models commenced. Timed to be at exactly the same time as the launch in Hong Kong, guests began the journey being presented with iPad's pre-loaded with a movie which begun to play simultaneously. After the video, four models were passed around the room: The Geophysic True Second in rose gold and steel and the Geophysic World Time in rose gold and steel.
Geophysic True Second:
The Geophysic True Second is truly "classic". The smoothness and finish of the case and dial exudes a sense of class and elegance. The new "ticking" of the second hand brings a factor of excitement as if counting towards a monumental moment in life. With a 39.6 mm case, the True Second comfortably sits on the wrist with a very natural weight. The new elements of the watch is first noticed in the lugs. Previously, the lugs of the watch met the case with a gentle curve providing a seamless 360 degree unit. With this new model, the lugs connect at decisive angle providing a sense of presentation and heightened display of the case and face of the watch.
Geophysic World Time:
The Geophysic World Time was by far the star of the show housing a beautiful artistic replica of a world map on the face of the watch. Offered in rose gold and silver, the world time includes a brand new two position adjustment feature. The crown in its neutral position winds the movement, while position 1 serves to set the jumping hours corresponding to the city and date where the wearer is currently located. Position 2 controls the hours and minutes. With a 41.6 mm case, the watch separates itself with one distinct feature - no longer does the wearer use a pushbutton to adjust the time, instead the crown is used. The Geophysic is a wonderful size for women who enjoy wearing a larger case. Personally, I am accustomed and actually much prefer larger and heavier watches. The detailing and the gorgeous blue against the stainless steel provides a realistic feeling of looking at the blue of the sea.
In his post, amanico highlighted the new feature where the cities on the dial do not rotate. You can read his analysis here: www.watchprosite.com
This new feature was addressed and discussed at the launch party in which many were heard to have requested customized models in which certain city names would be swapped out for more personalized markings.
Last words:
I believe that the success of this launch was not only seen in the design and innovation of the two models, but also in the method and presentation of the release. It is now too common for brands to shoot press releases through a simple email attachment losing the authenticity of the brand's excitement. Jaeger-LeCoultre not only brought together members of the New York watch scene but also unified two ends of the world with the simultaneous launch in Hong Kong. The introduction of these two new models has harmoniously brought the legacy of the brand into the modern age and struck the perfect balance between a traditional launch in a very progressive crowd.
There was also a launch in London, on the 30th of September, but not really at the same time than HK and NY. But yes, the idea to launch the watch at the same moment in different parts of the world was excellent... For an Universal Time. Thanks for the report. Best, Nicolas
I have now had my curiosity piqued...enough to want to search them out in the metal! Thanks, ampurist!
Looks like a great launch event and a nice dinner Thanks for the write up and sharing with us the pics of the watches and the dinner. I saw these new Geophysics in the metal at watches and wonders and the JLC Singapore boutique and I must say I like the macho case design as well as the new true second movement design and finishing. Looks like you had a great time at the event too with fellow watch collectors Thanks for bringing us there virtually. Cheers Robin
of JLC (21 years), I think this has been the best, most sophisticated launch that I have ever seen JLC conduct. I DO hope that JLC is setting the stage for how products - especially ones as great as this (and the Automatic Reversos, next year) - will be handled in the future. Now to get the message our to the average Joe who is looking for something a little more special that a watch with an "R" on the dial! -Dean
My interest in these watches is certainly piqued!
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