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.
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.
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.
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!
