Comments:
You still have in mind the Navy Seals Alarm which was introduced last year:
It is a 44 mm titanium case, offering an Alarm into a Diving watch.
Some Diving Watch Lovers wanted a simpler instrument, in a smaller case.
The MC Diving Automatic Navy Seals is made for them!
Here, no GMT, no Alarm, just the essential, the Hours, Minutes, Seconds, and the Date.
While the Alarm Diving watches are the most famous, we don't have to forget that JLC also released, in the 60ies, early 70ies, simpler, non striking watches, like the:
- Master Mariner Deep Sea ( 37 mm case ) :
- The Dolfin ( 32 mm case ) :
- And the Diving Jaeger ( 37 mm case ), which, in some aspects, certainly inspired the Navy Seals Automatic, as you can see on the picture below :
Let's say it clearly, the NS Automatic is with the NS Alarm one of my favourite JLC ( and non JLC ) modern Diving watch.
This one is more than a Navy Seals Alarm on which was removed the Alarm disk.
The visual impact is really strong, even if the case is smaller ( 42 mm ), due to a redesigned dial.
The 6 / 9 / 12 index numbers are a bit bigger, the hands are slightly thinner, as well as the " arrow " on the Minutes Hand, while the indexes have the same size than on the NS Alarm.
The readibility is impeccable, in any light conditions, as JLC opted for a very luminous material for the indexes and hands.
On the NS Automatic, the case is in SS, instead of Titanium on the NS Alarm, but it receives a satined finish, which still gives a relative dark look to the watch, and harmoniously contrasts with the ceramic bezel.
The loss of the Alarm is accompanied by the loss of one crown, but, here again, the visual outcome of this prominent crown is really powerful, and works very well with the rest of the watch.
The case is smaller, but also thinner ( 14, 02 mm high ), compared to the Navy Seals Alarm.
It is hardly noticeable on the pictures, but the outcome is here, with a superb blend of strength and elegance.
The case back is engraved wit the Navy Seals Logo, which is a discrete solution to " sign " the partnership with this Elite Corps.
Don't you have the strange feeling that you already know this watch, that you already saw it ?
To be complete, the Navy Seals Automatic is powered by the well known, reliable and accurate Cal 899, born in 2004, and firstly introduced on the Master Control.
It will be made in a Limited Edition of 1500 pieces.
3 straps are available with this watch: Rubber moulded, as on my pictures, Rubber Articulated, or Leather.
One last point: The price tag will be around 6, 5 K euros ( a bit more expensive for the Rubber Articulated bracelet, though ), which is another excellent news.
If the rumour is correct, we'll see a new Rolex Submariner coming at the next Basel Fair, in March...
I really think that this JLC Diving watch will be a very serious competitor!
So, what is your take on this watch?
Best,
Nicolas This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-01-22 11:40:14 This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-01-22 11:41:50 This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-01-26 21:40:14
I really share your interest for the NS Auto, and to say all, I consider adding it in my collection.
For the reasons you perfectly mentionned... A serious and good watch.
As for my other reports, I hope to be able to post 3 of them next week...
Best, my friend.
Nicolas
It's been a long time that the Army doens't use any mechanical watch, and the Manufacture has an agreement with the Navy SEALs to use this Elite Corps as a Laboratory.
The watches are tested by the Navy SEALs, the watches aren't in dotation for the SEALs...Which makes a big difference.
Vulnerable because the prominet crown is not protected by a guard?
Well, we had some very interesting and famous Military Vintage watches which didn't have crownguards, like the SM 300 SAS, the Rolex 6538, and not to forget...The Tornek Rayville 900, this last being conform to the Mil Specs and used by ...The Navy SEALs.
Actually, I agree that I would be more comfortable with a screw in case back, but I think that the construction of the NS Auto is reliable enough.
Interesting thoughs, though.
Thanks a lot for your input!
Best,
Nicolas
The best is that you go and see it in the flesh, as it is even better in real than in pic, and nothing can beat a wrist test.
You will immediately know if it is made for you.
The only thing I can tell you is that it is very cool sport watch, and that the size is another very attractive point, as the volumes of the whole watch keep a certain elegance.
I was and still am seduced, which is not a good thing for my already too long wish list.
Best,
Nicolas
It is a beautiful watch for sure.....
I like the design and the size.......
But.....
The crown is too big, at least in my opinion.....
I fear that it might bother my wrist.... as the GO Sport Impact Evo......
I would like to see it in metal but from the photos I do prefer the alarm edition.....
Cheers
You'll be surprised by its comfort...
NB: I only try the watch with the moulded rubber strap.
Best,
Nicolas
I will try it....
Besides photos, as said, do not always "represent" the watch.....
You can only really judge when you try it on....
Cheers
My problem is that I love both the NS Auto and the NS Alarm...
One or 2 crowns, it doesn't matter, even if the 2d crown is the promise of the Alarm, and gives a nice look to the watch.
But a single crown at 3 is not disturbing me at all, and its big size is cool, à propos with the spirit of the watch, IMO.
Aaah, the Master Chrono?
Ok, let's say... Next Tuesday?
Done deal?
Best,
Nicolas
Thanks for the informative post. I'm glad to see the dial is not glossy.
From what I've seen, this look like one of the best looking diving watches I've seen for a long time. And I'm sure it looks as good, if not better, in the flesh. I thought the MC GMT diver was a great looking watch and wanted one. JLC then brought out the NSA and I thought "wow" I definitely have to get one of those. However, it took them such a long time to get them out to the AD's in the interim a bought a Panerai. Which I'm very glad about because I think they have surpassed the Alarm. This just looks fantastic. This time I shall be patient and hold off any purchases until I can get hold of one of these.
The Master Compressor Diving Automatic Navy Seals: The Perfect Diving Watch?
You still have in mind the Navy Seals Alarm which was introduced last year:
It is a 44 mm titanium case, offering an Alarm into a Diving watch.
Some Diving Watch Lovers wanted a simpler instrument, in a smaller case.
The MC Diving Automatic Navy Seals is made for them!
Here, no GMT, no Alarm, just the essential, the Hours, Minutes, Seconds, and the Date.
While the Alarm Diving watches are the most famous, we don't have to forget that JLC also released, in the 60ies, early 70ies, simpler, non striking watches, like the:
- Master Mariner Deep Sea ( 37 mm case ) :
- The Dolfin ( 32 mm case ) :
- And the Diving Jaeger ( 37 mm case ), which, in some aspects, certainly inspired the Navy Seals Automatic, as you can see on the picture below :
Let's say it clearly, the NS Automatic is with the NS Alarm one of my favourite JLC ( and non JLC ) modern Diving watch.
This one is more than a Navy Seals Alarm on which was removed the Alarm disk.
The visual impact is really strong, even if the case is smaller ( 42 mm ), due to a redesigned dial.
The 6 / 9 / 12 index numbers are a bit bigger, the hands are slightly thinner, as well as the " arrow " on the Minutes Hand, while the indexes have the same size than on the NS Alarm.
The readibility is impeccable, in any light conditions, as JLC opted for a very luminous material for the indexes and hands.
On the NS Automatic, the case is in SS, instead of Titanium on the NS Alarm, but it receives a satined finish, which still gives a relative dark look to the watch, and harmoniously contrasts with the ceramic bezel.
The loss of the Alarm is accompanied by the loss of one crown, but, here again, the visual outcome of this prominent crown is really powerful, and works very well with the rest of the watch.
The case is smaller, but also thinner ( 14, 02 mm high ), compared to the Navy Seals Alarm.
It is hardly noticeable on the pictures, but the outcome is here, with a superb blend of strength and elegance.
The case back is engraved wit the Navy Seals Logo, which is a discrete solution to " sign " the partnership with this Elite Corps.
Don't you have the strange feeling that you already know this watch, that you already saw it ?
To be complete, the Navy Seals Automatic is powered by the well known, reliable and accurate Cal 899, born in 2004, and firstly introduced on the Master Control.
It will be made in a Limited Edition of 1500 pieces.
3 straps are available with this watch: Rubber moulded, as on my pictures, Rubber Articulated, or Leather.
One last point: The price tag will be around 6, 5 K euros ( a bit more expensive for the Rubber Articulated bracelet, though ), which is another excellent news.
If the rumour is correct, we'll see a new Rolex Submariner coming at the next Basel Fair, in March...
I really think that this JLC Diving watch will be a very serious competitor!
So, what is your take on this watch?
Best,
Nicolas This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-01-22 11:40:14 This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-01-22 11:41:50 This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-01-26 21:40:14
A beautiful and strong watch
Hi Nicolas,
Thanks for a good article with some historical perspectives.
In my opinion it is the second-strongest watch of the Master Compressor Diving series - the first being the Navy Seals Alarm (NSA) due to its close link to the Polaris. Nevertheless, the Diving Automatic has an unbeatable, very solid and no-nonsense profile.
Maybe this makes it into the 'real tool watch' of the Diving series?
Looking forward to your other reports on the many, many new JLC watches...they haven't been kind to you this year ;-)
Claus
Thanks for a good article with some historical perspectives.
In my opinion it is the second-strongest watch of the Master Compressor Diving series - the first being the Navy Seals Alarm (NSA) due to its close link to the Polaris. Nevertheless, the Diving Automatic has an unbeatable, very solid and no-nonsense profile.
Maybe this makes it into the 'real tool watch' of the Diving series?
Looking forward to your other reports on the many, many new JLC watches...they haven't been kind to you this year ;-)
Claus
JLC has been really bad with me this year, indeed.
I really share your interest for the NS Auto, and to say all, I consider adding it in my collection.
For the reasons you perfectly mentionned... A serious and good watch.
As for my other reports, I hope to be able to post 3 of them next week...
Best, my friend.
Nicolas
Hardcore toolwatch without crownguard??
I'm sure that this high-end sportswatch from JLC has quite a following but I can't imagine this watch being used and/or endorsed by Navy SEAL units when JLC hasn't even taken the time to add a decent guard for the quite prominent, and thus vulnerable crown. Also, from the looks of it the caseback is fixed to the case with 4 small screws? I would expect a screwed construction A la Submariner/ Sea master for a hard-use diving watch wouldn't you?
Dial and bezel look decent and well designed though..
Just my 2 cents.
Ciao, D
Dial and bezel look decent and well designed though..
Just my 2 cents.
Ciao, D
Love the looks of this watch...
...but being an owner of the MCDGMT I also worry (at times) about the
lack of a strong crown guard. I find myself frequently checking the crown
during stressful activity. It does not however detract from my love of the
watch. Thank you Nicolas for this informative post.
N
This message has been edited by nwp627 on 2010-01-22 19:12:40
lack of a strong crown guard. I find myself frequently checking the crown
during stressful activity. It does not however detract from my love of the
watch. Thank you Nicolas for this informative post.
N
This message has been edited by nwp627 on 2010-01-22 19:12:40
2 cents, maybe but very valuable!
It's been a long time that the Army doens't use any mechanical watch, and the Manufacture has an agreement with the Navy SEALs to use this Elite Corps as a Laboratory.
The watches are tested by the Navy SEALs, the watches aren't in dotation for the SEALs...Which makes a big difference.
Vulnerable because the prominet crown is not protected by a guard?
Well, we had some very interesting and famous Military Vintage watches which didn't have crownguards, like the SM 300 SAS, the Rolex 6538, and not to forget...The Tornek Rayville 900, this last being conform to the Mil Specs and used by ...The Navy SEALs.
Actually, I agree that I would be more comfortable with a screw in case back, but I think that the construction of the NS Auto is reliable enough.
Interesting thoughs, though.
Thanks a lot for your input!
Best,
Nicolas
Thank you Nico....
Some real pics of a very nice piece indeed.....delicious trouble you say..!! Well I think your right on that score my friend...
I look forward to seeing this in the flesh along with another very similar piece announced at SIHH but the price is also very interesting on this one....could I go for a third JLC..? Or widen my collection further...mmmm.
You are indeed the 'Diablo' my friend with such treats like these..
Yours in trouble,
Andy.
Nico - question and info for you.....
i have just got back from my dealer who like you said this is a great piece in the flesh and they have put in an order for the one on a leather strap which they think they will get ~May/June for me to see.
How does the thickness compare to the Compressor GMT..? They had one in and although it's 44mm and Titanium it doesn't wear that big on the wrist but was just wondering about the thickness of the new Diver.
What is the finish like on the bezel and case..?? Again the GMT seems slightly 'rough'.
FYI - apparently the number of pieces seems to be 1500 for each strap combination as each are on different codes in the master catalogue and also different prices. The cheapest being on leather for £5,400ish which I think is priced just right.
Speak soon,
Andy.
The Diving Compressor GMT is around 15 mm thick,
While the NS Auto is 14 mm...
1 mm is significative when both watches are seen in the flesh, side by side.
As for the finish of the bezel, it is the same than on the NS Alarm, and much more different than on the Diving GMT, which is titanium for the Diving GMT.
The case is lighter and on the NS Auto, which is satined SS.
The finish is equally good on both watches.
Best,
Nicolas
1 mm is significative when both watches are seen in the flesh, side by side.
As for the finish of the bezel, it is the same than on the NS Alarm, and much more different than on the Diving GMT, which is titanium for the Diving GMT.
The case is lighter and on the NS Auto, which is satined SS.
The finish is equally good on both watches.
Best,
Nicolas
I must wait to see it in the metal, but
I think this may be my favorite Jaeger LeCoultre sports watch yet. The design and simple, functional bare necessities make this a perfect, rugged diver. Love the look on the leather strap. I am also a big fan of the new size. I find some 44 mm watches a little too much for me. Although I seem to gravitate towards the larger watches visually, they are not as complimentary as the 38-42 size on my wrist... all a matter of opinion. I give this beauty two big thumbs up. It will be a tough decision between this and the new Submariner. I know, I know, both is the best answer. Thank you for the great report and photos Nicolas.
Hi, emcquillan.
The best is that you go and see it in the flesh, as it is even better in real than in pic, and nothing can beat a wrist test.
You will immediately know if it is made for you.
The only thing I can tell you is that it is very cool sport watch, and that the size is another very attractive point, as the volumes of the whole watch keep a certain elegance.
I was and still am seduced, which is not a good thing for my already too long wish list.
Best,
Nicolas
Well....
It is a beautiful watch for sure.....
I like the design and the size.......
But.....
The crown is too big, at least in my opinion.....
I fear that it might bother my wrist.... as the GO Sport Impact Evo......
I would like to see it in metal but from the photos I do prefer the alarm edition.....
Cheers
I too agree with PP
the crown looks too big but i would have to see it in the real as it looks like a real nice piece good review nico thanks again
Yep, you'll need to try it, my friend.
You'll be surprised by its comfort...
NB: I only try the watch with the moulded rubber strap.
Best,
Nicolas
Certainly....
I will try it....
Besides photos, as said, do not always "represent" the watch.....
You can only really judge when you try it on....
Cheers
Thumbs up for sports and elegance
Wasn't that a Tag Heuer series; sports and elegance. Well anyway I think it is applicable to this watch. It is a sports watch allright, but it doesn't scream and shout. I am quite fond of three hand watches; small second is nice but a sweeping central second hand really makes my day. So yes this is certainly a watch I like and big surprise about the price tag. I mean we all know that this is also a lot of money to spend on your toys, but come on compared to the Alarm it is a bargain! I have to say that I like the two crowns better, it gives just more harmony because of the size of the crowns.
Thanks for the post Nicolas, and I don't want to rush you (well actually I do ) but when can we expect more pictures of the Master Control Chrono? I am searching the whole damn web for this bird but I know I have to count on you my man.
Best,
Starman
It is even a better bargain as I was wrong..;Its price tag is 6250 Euros.
My problem is that I love both the NS Auto and the NS Alarm...
One or 2 crowns, it doesn't matter, even if the 2d crown is the promise of the Alarm, and gives a nice look to the watch.
But a single crown at 3 is not disturbing me at all, and its big size is cool, à propos with the spirit of the watch, IMO.
Aaah, the Master Chrono?
Ok, let's say... Next Tuesday?
Done deal?
Best,
Nicolas
Perfection? May be as close as you can get?
Thanks for the informative post. I'm glad to see the dial is not glossy.
From what I've seen, this look like one of the best looking diving watches I've seen for a long time. And I'm sure it looks as good, if not better, in the flesh. I thought the MC GMT diver was a great looking watch and wanted one. JLC then brought out the NSA and I thought "wow" I definitely have to get one of those. However, it took them such a long time to get them out to the AD's in the interim a bought a Panerai. Which I'm very glad about because I think they have surpassed the Alarm. This just looks fantastic. This time I shall be patient and hold off any purchases until I can get hold of one of these.
Yep, we are in the same case.
But I wonder if I'm not gonna get the duo NS Alarm and Auto...
Can't decide which one of these 2 I prefer.
Keep us updated!
Best,
Nicolas
Can't decide which one of these 2 I prefer.
Keep us updated!
Best,
Nicolas
Great review Nicolas!
I like this variant from the JLC SEALs line very much, thanks for the review!
-MW
-MW
It could well be.
That was a great review, Nicolas. Thanks for sharing. I really love the look of that watch.
Beautiful...
First off, thank you so much for taking the time to post these wonderful, real life pics of this beauty. I am now presented with a dilemma -- a rather nice one, actually -- in that I don't know if I should go for the Diving Alarm, or perhaps save a few pennies and get the Diving Automatic. I know from my MCDC that the Master Compressor Diving series' titanium construction makes for an exceptionally comfortable watch, and that 44mm looks just fine on my 7" wrist, so the Diving Alarm would be right at home in my watch box. However, I've always felt that 42mm is my sweet spot, and sometimes there's just no substitute for the heft of steel. I will confess that I'm a bit puzzled over the fact that JLC stopped at 300M on this one (perhaps due to the non-screwdown case back), when 1000M seems to be de riguer for divers these days, but let's be honest, 300M is still 280M deeper than I usually dive ;-)
Anyway, there's no such thing as too many good choices, so I guess I'll have to wait and see which way my heart leads me. While I've been dying to add an alarm complication to my humble collection, perhaps the simplicity of the Diving Automatic will win the day.
Regards,
Adam
PS - Were I to get the NS Diving Automatic, would the articulated rubber bracelet from my MCDC fit? Do we know what the lug size is on this watch yet?
Anyway, there's no such thing as too many good choices, so I guess I'll have to wait and see which way my heart leads me. While I've been dying to add an alarm complication to my humble collection, perhaps the simplicity of the Diving Automatic will win the day.
Regards,
Adam
PS - Were I to get the NS Diving Automatic, would the articulated rubber bracelet from my MCDC fit? Do we know what the lug size is on this watch yet?