When launched in 1992, the Master Control line was the first of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s collections to benefit from its pioneering ‘1000 Hours Control’ certification – one of the watch industry’s most stringent testing protocols. This year, the collection gets a five-model refresh by drawing inspiration from the classic round watches of the 1950s, such as the Futurematic, PowerMatic and Memovox models. Rather than paying homage to a single historical reference, Jaeger-LeCoultre presents a range of timepieces featuring some of its most emblematic complications, along with a new case design and the introduction of a new pink gold alloy – Le Grand Rose gold. The brand also launched a new Master Grande Tradition and Reverso.
Master Control Chronograph Calendar
The headline model of the new Master Control collection features a newly developed movement, Calibre 759, which combines a chronograph with a triple calendar display and a moon-phase; a combination brought together for the first time in a Jaeger-LeCoultre timepiece. The new Calibre 759 features a column-wheel chronograph with a vertical clutch, a moon-phase indicator, and a 65-hour power reserve.
Master Control Calendar
In the 1940s and ’50s, Jaeger-LeCoultre was renowned for its triple calendar moon-phase movements, and the new Master Control Calendar brings that tradition into the 21st century. The new 40mm x10.95mm case is offered in either steel or Le Grand Rose gold. The updated Calibre 866 has a new jumping complication, because of which, the date hand makes a 90-degree leap every month from the 15th to the 16th, in order not to obscure the moon-phase display.
Master Control Date
Thanks to its slim movement, Calibre 899, the 40mm steel case of the Master Control Date is just 8.78mm thick. The calibre features a new escapement and pallets made of silicon to minimise friction and thus consume less energy. The barrel was redesigned to accommodate a stronger and longer mainspring to increase the power reserve to 70 hours. The case and dial feature cool, silvery-white colour palette, minimalistic design and refined details.
Master Control Geographic
This traveller’s watch has been a feature of the Master Control collection since 1990. It has a new dial, sunray-brushed and contained within a wide, convex flange on which the elongated triangular indexes are set. The profile of each index has been shaped to fit with the curve where the flange meets the dial. The new-generation Calibre 939 increases its power reserve to 70 hours. The case is available in a choice of steel or Le Grand Rose gold.
Master Grande Tradition Grande Complication
The Master Grande Tradition series epitomises Jaeger-LeCoultre’s horological ingenuity and artistic creativity. The latest addition to this series incorporates two of the most romantic yet technically challenging complications in horology – a minute repeater and a celestial vault. The challenge is further elevated by the inclusion of an orbital flying tourbillon. This is a limited edition of eight pieces each in rose gold and white gold.