On The Watchmakers Trail – Le Chalet by Jaeger-LeCoultre
The manufacturer from Le Sentier now also runs a chalet that is available for special dinners and events.
The manufacturer from Le Sentier now also runs a chalet. Why? The question is more than justified. But it initially brought another mystery to mind: what is the secret to the success of classic mechanical watches? I think there is hardly any other product that has been so successful for such a long time without undergoing any fundamental changes and still evokes emotions. That’s right. On the one hand, there is the mechanics, which in wristwatches are so miniaturised that they appear to be a small marvel. Those who are more familiar with the processes and the interaction of the numerous, precisely manufactured individual parts in a movement look at their watch with even greater enthusiasm. This also applies to the front of the watch. Despite its functionality, a watch also offers space for design and craftsmanship in many different styles. And you can take all of this with you wherever you go, see it, feel it and sometimes even hear it. A very personal treasure.
On my list of secrets that explain the unwavering popularity of mechanical timepieces, there is another insight: it is also the brands and their performance that arouse desire. In today’s world, where a watch is no longer a necessary commodity, the who and how matter and interest more than ever. And it doesn’t always have to be about the cool image, the most casual appearance, the most prominent brand ambassador or the funniest commercial – although all of that is appealing and rubs off on the product, of course.
Experience Jaeger-LeCoultre at its finest
Jaeger-LeCoultre is now demonstrating that it can be more sophisticated and mature – which is certainly more appealing to the target group for high-quality mechanical watches. And the best thing about it: as a guest of the manufacturer, founded in 1833, you don’t have to settle for viewing digital campaign images or films, but can experience and enjoy the world and environment of the Vallée de Joux – the cradle of watchmaking and home of Jaeger-LeCoultre – up close and personal. And all this in a restored 19th-century chalet. It couldn’t be more cosy and authentic.
At an altitude of 1,360 metres on the western side of Mont Tendre lies the restored Chalet d’alpage, an alpine hut that Jaeger-LeCoultre, in collaboration with the municipality of Le Chenit, has lovingly transformed into an oasis of well-being. Without detracting from the authentic charm of the building, which is located in peaceful seclusion, it is easy to see why the development of watchmaking into a significant industry began here. During the dark winter months, when agricultural work was largely at a standstill, the people here perfected the craft of timekeeping and timekeeping displays.
For almost 200 years, Jaeger-LeCoultre in Le Sentier has also been dedicated to perfecting the art of watchmaking, bringing together all areas of expertise under one roof. The brand regularly invites visitors to experience this world for themselves. Now, there is a new highlight to this journey: a stay in a 19th-century chalet, just a ten-minute drive away, yet in a world of its own.
Le Chalet – in harmony with the soul of the Vallée de Joux
In order to offer guests at the alpine hut overlooking Lac de Joux exactly that, the building, nicknamed Les Chaumilles – small pasture – was carefully designed and lovingly restored. It originally belonged to a farmer who milked his cows and made cheese here. It thus embodies the deeply rooted way of life in this region, which the restorers have transformed into a modern yet cosy space for the here and now. Stable, barn and cheese dairy – this was the original layout of the simple hut. Today, the mezzanine lounge is the heart of the chalet, hosting dinners and events. In the centre is the so-called thuyé, a pyramid-shaped fireplace where cheese was made from fresh milk. Here, as in the rest of the chalet, the original wood has been preserved as far as possible. The former milk room now houses the kitchen, where a chef will prepare mainly regional dishes for guests, often using Vacherin, a cheese speciality from the Vallée de Joux. The cosy elegance of the interior is complemented by a rustic façade, partly clad in wooden shingles typical of the region.
Up close and personal: an authentic experience with Jaeger-LeCoultre
Le Chalet is not only a place to relax and unwind, promises the manufacturer, but also to experience the culture, history and everyday life of the people of the Vallée de Joux. And thus the valley where Pierre LeCoultre found refuge from persecution in France in the mid-16th century and where, ten generations later, his descendant Antoine LeCoultre founded the watchmaking workshop that gave rise to today’s manufacturer. Now all that’s missing is an invitation from Jaeger-LeCoultre – I’m keeping my fingers crossed!
With the release of the new Aqua Terra in a 30-millimetre format, Omega is openly targeting women. The accompanying campaign My Little Secret, featuring strong women from the worlds of music, fashion, theatre and cinema reveal their styling secrets, makes it evident that this is a ladies' watch. But wait a minute! Do ladies' and…
With the release of the new Aqua Terra in a 30-millimetre format, Omega is openly targeting women. The accompanying campaign My Little Secret, featuring strong women from the worlds of music, fashion, theatre and cinema reveal their styling secrets, makes it evident that this is a ladies' watch. But wait a minute! Do ladies' and…
Bronze was the first alloy to ever be used by humans. It was discovered in the Middle East around 3500 BC, hence the name that ensued soon after: the 'Bronze Age'. It seems that in the watch world at least, the Bronze Age is back (albeit without the pirates and invasions by nomadic tribes). There…
We already introduced the new Vacheron Constantin Dual Time, which was shown at SIHH this year as part of their popular ‘Overseas’ collection. Another watch from this collection that really stands out is the Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin with a slender 4.05 mm movement powering a perpetual calendar and moon-phase indication. Take a close look to see its true…
The significance of a 'Royal Warrant' – the distinction of being a royal purveyor – can be felt not only in museums. When King Charles III recently withdrew this status from the chocolate company Cadbury after 170 years, it caused quite a stir. After all, Cadbury is considered one of Britain’s strongest brands. However, according…
Swisswatches attended the launch of the new TUDOR Ranger in London back in July, and it was everything you’d hope for: ambassador David Beckham enthused about the tale behind the watch, guests drank smoothies out of ice cubes, and an Oxford scientist spoke enthusiastically about the importance of the British North Greenland Expedition. Since the…
“Suppose my house was on fire, I had to get out as quickly as possible, and could only save one thing: it would be this watch.” Our conversation with the father and son behind the highly respected Instagram watch collector account @horology_ancienne has been going on for over an hour by the time this sentence…
Montblanc is a brand with a great tradition. So is its Minerva manufacture, the maker of historic and once extremely sought-after monopusher chronographs. Ever since Minerva became part of Montblanc, new monopusher watches have become amongst the most stylistic, defining, and successful models of the house. The latest reference is also very much in line…
The past 100 years have without doubt brought along many technical changes. Looking at classical cars like Porsche 911, Jaguar X-type or Mercedes SL for example you might optically not notice too many differences to a modern version. However under the hood you will find a high tech engine. This is applicable to the watch…
It was in 1972 when Ferdinand Alexander Porsche decided to establish a design company for watches (and other products) after he retired from the operating business at Porsche. Ever since he has been a designer, not only was it him who developed the 911, but he was also in charge of all design aspects of…
The history of the Omega Speedmaster is a tale of remarkable achievements, an impressive heritage, and some of the finest timepieces Omega has ever produced throughout its long-standing history. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the origins of this iconic model, which holds such significance for the brand, and introduce some…
The American Florentine Ariosto Jones founded the brand IWC in 1868 and he wanted to pair Swiss craftsmanship in watchmaking with American manufacturing technologies. IWC became a specialist in creating excellent pocket watches. Even though the brand’s initials stand for ‘International’ Watch Company and was founded by an American citizen, it always was – and…
Since Georges Kern took the helm at Breitling almost three years ago, realigning collections and the brand’s strategy, annual sales have increased significantly. Kern recently revealed just how the brand will stay on the path to success with an intriguing, forward-looking perspective. A key theme is how we will consume in the future and the…