Unveiled in 2022, the Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful watches displaying universal time. This is even more true with the new interpretation by Jaeger-LeCoultre, which stands out with a sublime green enamel dial.
Universal time, a Jaeger-LeCoultre speciality
For nearly a century, Jaeger-LeCoultre has established itself as an essential reference in mastering watchmaking complications, especially those that allow displaying the time in several time zones simultaneously.
The new Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 is no exception to the rule and offers an artistic expression of universal time. As its name suggests, this watch is powered by the calibre 948, a high precision mechanism with 388 components and a 48-hour power reserve. At its presentation, this movement was the first to combine universal time with a flying tourbillon, the latter making a complete rotation in 24 hours, just like the Earth around the Sun.
Jaeger-LeCoultre has designed this automatic movement to offer remarkable ease of use: the crown allows for setting the time and synchronizing all time zones, while adjusting the local time during trips is done by moving the hour hand forward or backward one hour without affecting the minutes and seconds. This may seem trivial, but it bears witness to the unparalleled (or almost) expertise of the brand’s watchmakers.
The Atelier of Rare Crafts enhances the dial of the watch
If the mechanics of this Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 is a gem of precision, what can be said about the watch’s dial? It doesn’t seem exaggerated to refer to it as an “artistic masterpiece,” a testament to the expertise of the master craftsmen at Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Rare Crafts™ workshop.
Adorned with guilloche patterns and covered with several layers of translucent lacquer, this green enamel dial alone requires more than 70 hours of meticulous work. The champlevé enamel technique used here involves carving the surface of the precious metal to apply successive layers of enamel, thus creating color nuances that evoke terrestrial landscapes.
The application of lacquering, another ancient technique mastered by the craftsmen of Jaeger-LeCoultre, also contributes to the beauty of the dial. This method involves the hand application of multiple layers of lacquer, each requiring controlled drying and delicate polishing to achieve a finish that captures and reflects light in a sublime manner.
The result is a dial of impressive depth and visual richness, enhanced by a world map viewed from the North Pole, sculpted in 18-carat gold and topping a skeleton structure in rose gold.
To stage this watchmaking ballet, Jaeger-LeCoultre has chosen a 43mm diameter 18-karat rose gold case (750/1000) that is 14.13mm thick. Comprising over 40 pieces, its convex bezel contrasts with the angular and hollowed-out lugs, creating a sophisticated play of light. The black alligator leather strap completes the set, highlighting the elegance and aesthetic coherence of this exceptional watch.
Work of art, rare piece limited to only 20 copies… Regardless of the terms used, the new interpretation of this Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 is a watch aimed at an enlightened audience. A watch that does not make you want to read the time, but simply to admire over and over this dial like no other.
