MichaelC
[AP Moderator]
22385
JLC fans, what would you say is the modern essence of the brand?
In a recent thread a few weeks ago (it might have been on the TimeOut forum), I made a comment about the PAM372 kind of ruining me for other Panerai watches. The 372 is such a terrific reference for the brand. But since having it over a few years now, I find few other offerings from Panerai tempting.
I can almost say the same thing about AP's wonderful 15202 reference. Now as an AP junkie, there will always be more watches in the future I will like, but for most casual collectors, a 15202 could be the perfect AP.
JLC is a brand I have flirted with but never really given a fair chance to.
So my question to you JLC PuristS - what current reference would fit the role of a 372 or 15202 for a casual JLC fan? I surely recognize this is a powerhouse brand with many accomplishments, many different styles of watches. So this might be a difficult question for you to answer.
Admittedly, I am not an expert on knowing JLC's full collection. I would initially feel that if I were to own a single JLC, a Reverso might best fit the bill. But what about the incredible Duometre? I would think this is as fine of expression of JLC as is available.
And another one I find highly original and tempting - the titanium cased MC Extreme Lab 2. This one has more of a conceptual feel to me, and maybe does not fit the role of my inquiry, but it is so damn good looking. Very technical, a trait that is very appealing to me. Also a large case here, but it seems proper for the watch.
A few photos I have taken from the JLC website.
A simple Reverso:
Maybe a more exciting version here with some complications:
Aah, such a beautiful manufacture chronograph. I would likely go for a white metal, but I like the dial openings on this one:
What is it with this watch I find so alluring? My tastes have evolved over years of collecting. Where I used to drool over all sporty watches, I now find simpler and more refined pieces more seducing. But this JLC - it encompasses so much in a single piece. I find it amazing.
My selections are a bit all over the board I'm afraid. Certainly this is a brand I hope to understand better in the coming years.
So for now, I welcome your comments and advice.
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JLC fans, what would you say is the modern essence of the brand?
In a recent thread a few weeks ago (it might have been on the TimeOut forum), I made a comment about the PAM372 kind of ruining me for other Panerai watches. The 372 is such a terrific reference for the brand. But since having it over a few years now, I f...
IMHO the true essence of JLC ...
Is not on a single watch but on the overall collection. JLC has developed watches that go from very dressy to amazing sportive and this is what defines the brand. For all tastes and all uses. Ample spectrum. That is the essence. Another factor is the JLC ...
True Nilo.
A credit to the brand, that there might not be a single definitive answer to this question.
The true essence is...
That is spot on with JLC. There is no one watch that defines them. Certainly, the Reverso is perhaps their best known, but the true essence of JLC is probably their vision. It is fairly unique and spreads across their whole collection.
Trying to understand such a big brand as JLC requires a huge amount of time. They have
Several emblematic watches... The Reverso, the simpler one, is a classic, as well as some Memovoxes, or some more daring réalisations. Knowing you a bit, why not this one? A syrong beast, and quite appealing, don't you think? Best, Nicolas ...
That is the easy way, indeed.
You can't go wrong with these, or with the TT DSAs, as well... Best, Nicolas
Yet,
If you wanted to go straight to the DNA, to the heart, it would be hard NOT to go Reverso.
In terms of elegance, yes, I agree.
But once you have one, you can't help thinking of the other one... ;) Best, Michael. Nicolas
Yes, I am afraid of that!
Perhaps a reason I have never been too active here. But the brand is outstanding, one of the best in the world of course, and it is just a matter of time for me. Thanks for all your great work here Nicolas. It is obvious how passionate the PuristSPro JLC ...
No fear, just double pleasure, here. ;)
And yes, I am priviledged to have such a great JLC Community, Michael. Come back as often as you want. My home is your home. ;) Best, Nicolas
A bit like Zenith...
Hi, I'd say that JLC is somewhat similar to Zenith in that their signature is the unique integrated manufacture status that they have maintained through the years. The company has many watch styles and references that are revered by its enthusiasts but fa...
You are right about the Duometres, they are certainly among the most interesting
Offers from JLC. They are Worth to be mentionned! Best, Nicolas
Great commentary Tim.
Maybe a good way to think about it. The Reverso is most definitely an icon in the watch world and for JLC, but maybe not the true brand "essence".
I have thought about this, too...
...Michael, and with respect to several brands. I came to nearly the same conclusion about AP as you: that requires a Jumbo in some iteration, and after experiencing that, there is the chance it may spoil you for many other wonderful APS out there. With r...
I agree with you on the Amvox II.
Funnily, it has some elements of design whoch have been borrowed to the Polaris. The case, and the way the hour markers numbers are shaped. But it has its own ( and strong personality, and like you, I think it is on to become a Classic, in its way. Best, ...
The Amvox 2 Boutique Edition almost got me a few years back
It is one of the coolest JLC dials to my eyes. Appreciate your advice Respo!
Duomètre Unique Travel Time
Assuming you want something a mere mortal could actually consider buying (i.e. not a Hybris Mechanica model), here are my thoughts. The essence of Jaeger-LeCoultre is this: Quality and beautiful build Manufacture movements (thousands of them, customized t...
Well, the Rose Gold UTT is available world wide...
And the A Chronographe is a very tempting beast, too... But for the rest, I cannot agree more with your words... ;) Best, Nicolas.
Certainly one to be considered.
I do see the Duo line as correct for my question. Very original inside and out. A true manufacture watch.
Let's not forget examples that beautifully integrates complications, such
as the Master Control 8 Days, the Reverso Grande Date, the Master Ultra Thin Reserve de Marche. All three have stunning asymmetry, several complications, but never do I find do the complications get in the way or detract from the elegance of the basic des...
Generally, I enjoy asymmetrical dial layouts...
And JLC has some beauties. Like the Antoine LeCoultre I mention below. I sure wish I grabbed that special model.
The Reverso is the icon but I don't feel it is the modern essence of the brand
Hence, from what I feel from JLC, it's a very tough question. I would say that the Hybris Mechanica collection is JLC's expression of its modernity. But they are not as accessible as a popular model (15202, 372 etc...). Maybe the Duometres à chrono shares...
Thanks Mark.
This topic is one to apply to all brands. I think it is much easier to decide when it is a brand you have experience with. But that is why I presented the topic here at JLC, because it is most definitely a brand for me to own.
Wow, thank you all, Friends.
I want to reply in more detail to each of you and will. Some great advice in this thread already! I should have mentioned in my original post, years ago I fell in love with a platinum Master Antoine LeCoultre model. It featured a power reserve, day/night ...
Master 8 Days Antoine Lecoultre. Yes, that was a great watch!
It existed with a perpetual calendar, or without. Best, Michael. Nicolas.
It's hard to say, "What is the (modern) essence..."
of the brand. For me, what captivates "the best of the best" in JLC would come down to a few pieces, since JLC is one of the deepest brands in the industry (read: breadth of product offering). Here are a few of what I, personally, consider the best AND TH...
I love your selection, and the reasons behind, Dean.
The interesting and exciting thing with JLC is that we can find so many opportune sélections! For example, the Minute Repeater and this smart system of welded gongs... Or The Master Ultra Thins. Or The Amvox, especially the II. And so on... Best, Nicolas ...
You're correct, my Parisian, brother...
the only challenge I see with JLC is that I LIKE EVERYTHING THEY DO (pretty much). It's kind of like trying to capture the main essence of a rainbow by choosing one color. How do you do that? -Dean
There are indeed some very interesting things in each category of prices.
But if I had to choose only one family, I would go for the Duometre Line. Considering that we are far from having seen all... Best, Sunny Brother. Nicolas
Excellent feedback, thank you.
The Reserve de Marche is a terrific model, and I agree with you. The Duo Lunair is so visually striking, and you turn it over and it is just as impressive. I would say you have a great handle on JLC Dean!
Essence is its past and how it navigates the future...
And this could be represented as a rectangular case for the former and a round one for the latter. Take your pick from any of the Reversos and you would have easily captured the essence of JLC's past. Take your pick from any of the Duometres and you would...
A good idea you propose
Spot on it seems. I think I lean a bit more to the "where (JLC) wants to take you" side for my first selection. As this thread has shown, and as I now understand, it is probably not likely for a true JLC fan to only own one. Thanks for your inputs!
This is a very interesting thread. I have nothing to contribute.
But just want to say "thank you" for starting it, MichaelC. All responses and discussions are a great read. Best regards, Ruckdee
Ruckdee, I am glad you have read the thread
I'll take little credit for starting it; it is really the well thought out and sincere replies that make it. As I told Nicolas above, this JLC forum is amazing. So glad to have you all here!
Re: The modern essence of JLC...
Not an easy question to answer, Michael... The short answer I would say is that you need minimum three watches to cover the basics. 1) Reverso, personally I would either go very simple or very complex. Reverso Rouge or Blue as a simple (any single or duo ...
ATMOS
ATMOS is the real essence: innovative, unparalleled, tranquility, aesthetic, perfection. Modern (recent) essence: Duometre. Stands for everything JLC is and was: innovation in watch making. JLC always was 'the watchmaker's watch' (supplying the big 3 for ...
Amvox for Me, but this time a 5...
Having read through this thread it's very interesting... From a modern perspective, the Amvox's do it for me and the 5 in Ceramic and Rose Gold encapsulates modern materials coupled with a great movement. IMHO the essence of JLC... So glad I bought one :-...