Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Classic: The Return of 36 mm Elegance

Jaeger-LeCoultre presents the Master Control Classic, a new watch limited to 500 pieces, whose design is based on a historic Master Control model from 1995 – timeless and minimalist. The Master Control collection was launched in 1992 and stood out from the rest of the collection thanks to the newly introduced “1,000 Hours Control” certification.

Case of the Master Control Classic

The case of the Master Control Classic is made of stainless steel. In keeping with its historic predecessor, it has classic proportions and measures just 36 mm in diameter. However, the original 1995 model had a diameter of 34 mm – later versions with a larger diameter were also released. With a height of only 8.15 mm, the watch is extremely flat. It is water-resistant to 5 bar. The case back is adorned with a historic emblem in the original 1990s design, which refers to the certification by the factory’s own “1,000 Hours Control” test. Introduced in 1992, this copyrighted protocol sets strict precision standards and subjects the fully assembled watch, not just the movement, to comprehensive testing.

„1,000 Hours Control“ test

A central element of the identity of the Master Control Classic – and the entire collection – is the test protocol introduced in 1992, which gave it its name. In contrast to the chronometer certification by the COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres), which traditionally only tests the “bare” movement, the 1,000-hour control subjects the fully assembled watch to testing. A movement may run perfectly in isolation, but when installed in the case, tensions can arise, hands can touch each other or the dial can exert minimal pressure on the movement plate. Only testing the complete watch reveals these potential sources of error. The test protocol, which is protected by copyright, simulates everyday use over a period of six weeks (1,000 hours).

Dial of the Master Control Classic

The design of the dial is minimalist and exudes a vintage aesthetic in homage to the original. The classic silver-coloured dial is finished with a sunburst pattern. Readability is ensured by elongated triangular indices and luminous dots for the hours. Classic Dauphine hands serve as hands. A subtle colour accent is provided by the central blued seconds hand. Depending on the angle of incidence of the light, the character of the dial changes from a light, almost white silver to darker grey tones.

The hours are marked by elongated triangular indices. This geometric shape is typical of the design language of the 1950s, which was referenced in the 1990s, and conveys a certain dynamism, as the tips of the triangles draw the eye to the centre of the watch. These applied indices are complemented by luminous dots for the hours.

Movement of the Master Control Classic

Inside the watch is the automatic calibre 899, which has been installed in its latest version. The calibre 899 has been a cornerstone of the manufacture for almost two decades and has been repeatedly updated with new, performance-enhancing technology. Its architecture is based on the legendary calibre 889, but it has been continuously developed over the years. It offers a power reserve of 70 hours. The functions include hours, minutes, seconds and a date.

Strap of the Master Control Classic

The new Master Control Classic comes with a brown ostrich leather strap. Ostrich leather is known for its softness and extreme durability. Characteristic of this leather are the darker pores (the bases of the quills), which give the leather a distinctive, natural texture. In the 1990s, ostrich leather was an extremely popular material for luxury watches.

Price & Availability

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Classic has the reference number Q4008520. Availability is strictly limited to 500 pieces worldwide. Price: 8,900 euros.

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