Jaeger-LeCoultre added a new model to the ‘Polaris collection’, revealed at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in Geneva: the Polaris Geographic WT (Ref. Q904847J).
The design is inspired by the 1968 Memovox Polaris watch, one of the models of the Grande Maison’s ‘Memovox line’. The model is characterized by a sporty, but cosmopolitan design. The 42 mm case houses the Calibre 936A/1, a mechanical self-winding Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre bringing a new feature to the collection: the geographic function – ideal for travelers.
A new Jaeger-LeCoultre function: for World travelers
With the Polaris Geographic WT (for “World Time”) the 24 time zones of the planet can be discovered. The zones of the local and the chosen place are visible on the flange, which can be adjusted by the crown at 10 o’clock. For cities switching between standard and daylight saving time according to seasons, a white asterisk indicates the time with this one-hour difference.
The dial’s design represents the typical Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris colours. The blue subtly turning to black gives the Polaris Geographic WT watch the impression of great depth. Other than that the model is decorated with three finishes: an opaline base for the city disk, a sunrayed sub-dial housing the calendar at 2 o’clock, the second time zone at 6 o’clock and the power reserve at 10 o’clock, and a grained finishing for the case back.
The day/night disk, divided into two black and white sections, indicates whether it is day or night in the local city and the second time zone of choice. Slight details on the disk are the small sun indicating the daytime hours – black numerals on a white background – and the little crescent moon for the night hours – white numerals on a black background.
The origins of the timepiece
The new Jaeger-LeCoultre ‘Polaris line’ is inspired by the 1968 Memovox Polaris watch, which was particularly known for its three crowns. As well the Polaris was the first diving watch fitted with an alarm function, featuring a patented triple case-back to amplify its sound underwater. In total 1,714 Memovox Polaris II pieces were produced between 1965 and 1968. The 2018 Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris model has though been redesigned: the lugs are shorter and the bezel is slimmer. The polished and brushed finishing emphasizes the line’s sporty spirit. As well the Plexiglas was replaced by sapphire crystal.
The new Polaris Geographic WT completes the Jaeger-LeCoultre ‘Polaris collection’ that was unveiled in January 2018 at the watch fair SIHH in Geneva. This model has been issued as a series of 250 pieces and is available at the Jaeger-LeCoultre boutiques.
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