SPECIFICATIONS
Precious Jaeger-LeCoultre women’s watch with a solid 18Kt yellow gold case and integrated bracelet, in-house manual-winding movement 8NR (cal.496), from 1950.
18Kt yellow gold case measuring 16.4mm
Original 18Kt yellow gold bracelet
Original faceted crystal
Original crown
Manual-Winding JLC 8NR (cal.496) movement
ANALYSIS
In creating both circular and rectangular calibers, Jaeger-LeCoultre has consistently combined its mechanical expertise with a strong, distinctive design. In the women’s watch segment, the brand has distinguished itself with cutting-edge construction solutions and extraordinary originality. This ladies’ watch is yet another example of the heights JLC has reached.
The dial has a very simple and clean layout. The applied arrowhead-shaped indexes, truncated at the tip, stand out against the light background; while the quarter hours feature Arabic numerals. The hands are – as is typical for this type of JLC dial – dauphine-shaped. Protecting the entire composition is an extraordinary crystal in the shape of a low truncated cone, featuring a faceted profile. The quality is literally incredible. This detail amplifies and reverberates the light that reaches the dial through this marvelous inlaid glass. Surrounding this crystal masterpiece is a gold bezel with a twisted design. It resembles Caravaggio’s Basket of Fruit. The design and creation of this micro-masterpiece is attributed to Edmund Jaeger, whose hallmark appears on the outer caseback next to the “pop-up” winding crown, along with the eagle’s head hallmark.
The integrated bracelet continues this compositional rhythm. Two gold braided bands run parallel along its entire length and are connected by horizontal crosspieces. The two ends of this exquisitely crafted bracelet terminate in a contoured clasp. The entire creation possesses a truly incredible formal coherence.
Powering this jewel is the 8NR manufacture movement, also known as the JLC 496. It has 15 jewels and runs at 18,000 vibrations per hour.
