Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph Sector Dial History

amanico · 2017-09-28T07:04:53Z

Uncover the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph Sector Dial's vintage inspiration. Explore its design, heritage, and collector debates.

amanico

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

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Amanico uncovers the fascinating historical inspiration behind Jaeger-LeCoultre's Master Chronograph Sector Dial, a piece unveiled at SIHH 2017 to celebrate the Master Line's 25th anniversary. Through discussions with the Heritage Gallery, amanico reveals that the contemporary design directly references a vintage JLC split-seconds pocket watch from the 1940s, offering a deeper appreciation for the new collection's roots.

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At the SIHH this year, Jaeger Lecoultre unveiled three new versions from the Master Line, the Master Control, the Master Géographique, and the Master Chronograph, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this family.

Three new versions, let's say in a more accurate way, three new dials, with less functions for the Chronograph ( two sub dials instead of three ) and the the Géographique ( date and power reserve indicator ), at a lower price.

When I discovered them, I wondered if the Manufacture imagined this dial for this threesome or if they referred to something belonging to their past.

I asked to see these three watches again, and to discuss that with the Heritage Gallery.

And... There is something to be shared!

Jaeger Lecoultre clearly took the inspiration for this pocket watch, which is a chronograph... A Rattrapante, from the 40's, housing a Valjoux movement.

It was a surprise for me, as I can guess that it is a surprise for you, now.

We are very close to the dial of the pocket watch, with the Master Chronograph. Even the blue tachymeter is here. As well as the Two Tone dial.

Here are some fresh and better pictures I took at the Manufacture.

I absolutely love the 2 sub dials configuration, but I regret the pointed skeleton and empty hands. I would have much preferred the leaf hands of the pocket watch, much more elegant, from my point of view.

Here is a side by side picture, to better show you the ressemblance...

Of course, you will find the Cal 751 beating inside, which is automatic. Less sexy than a manual winding one, but much more affordable than a manual winding Rattrapante.

Needless to say that among the three sector dials unveiled this year, the Chronograph is my favorite. The Master Control Date would have been my first choice if it didn't have this date which ruins, in my opinion, the visual outcome.

Too bad, indeed, since this is, in my opinion, a good looking dial we have here. Another detail, the word automatic, which was not necessary, in my opinion, but not at the point to be a deal breaker.

Looking forward to reading your comments and thoughts,

Best.

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The subdials on the Master Chronograph Sector Dial appear too close to the center, suggesting the movement might have been designed for a smaller case, which impacts the overall dial balance in a 40mm case.
The absence of a running seconds hand on the Master Chronograph is a significant drawback for some, as it removes a basic indicator of the watch's operation and accuracy.
The skeletonized hands on the new Master Chronograph are actually mock-ups of 1940s radium-filled hands, and their application to a non-luminous dial is considered a poor design choice.
The new Master Chronograph Sector Dial looks even better in person than in photos and offers great relative value, despite minor critiques about the subdial font.
It is surprising that JLC did not officially reference the vintage pocket watch or other historical sector dial wristwatches during the launch of the new Master Line, given the brand's tendency to highlight its heritage.
The 'Vintage Gallery' mentioned by amanico refers to JLC's Heritage department, which plays a crucial role in preserving history and inspiring new designs.

The Discussion

Alkiro1

Sep 28, 2017

“Experience always wins the day”

Very interesting to see that this modern style (at first sight) was not so modern. Now I better understand this subtle “Art déco” style. Best wishes Alkiro

amanico

Sep 28, 2017

Thanks for reading. [nt]

Prodyutb

Sep 28, 2017

Very interesting find!

Now we know. Thanks. I agree with your take on the date time version. On the chrono though, the skeleton hands actually work very smartly, keeping everything open and legible. I am certain these hands would be quite difficult to produce with perfect symmetry, without modern technology, so it is a nice touch of modernity to a very period dial.

amanico

Sep 28, 2017

Thanks for your feedback. I know that the hands were discussed at JLC and that they tried a version with hands filled with luminova, but...

I was told it was not very convincing as an outcome... Best, Nicolas

Clavi

Oct 4, 2017

Then, maybe they should have considered other hands altogether :-)

form and function, you know..... If you are going for a 1930's inspired sector dial, then why consider luminous on hands ? makes absolutely no sense. At least make hands consistant with intended design spirit !

amanico

Oct 4, 2017

+++1. Thanks, Clavi. [nt]

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