Jaeger-LeCoultre has again demonstrated its mastery of haute horlogerie with the release of the Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948, a watch that artistically reimagines the concept of Universal Time. This exquisite timepiece is a technical marvel and a canvas for the stunning decorative arts practiced by the artisans at Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Métiers Rares® atelier.
The Jaeger LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 elegantly combines a world-time complication with a flying tourbillon, making a full rotation around the dial every 24 hours—mirroring the rotation of the Earth. This marks a significant achievement, as it was the first time these two complex mechanisms were united in watchmaking history. The watch’s dial features a beautifully detailed map of the Northern Hemisphere, viewed from the North Pole, rendered on a domed skeleton of longitudes and latitudes.
The continents are meticulously crafted from white gold and set against champlevé enamel, a technique dating back nearly 2,500 years. This painstaking process involves carving out areas of the metal to create a basin filled with enamel, layer by layer, each fired at high temperatures to achieve a finish flush with the metal surface. The final product features miniature painted details that highlight the geographical characteristics of each continent.
Below this artful display lies a vibrant blue ocean, represented by translucent lacquer over a guilloché pattern, enhancing the visual depth of the seas. The Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 is housed in a complex case that includes over 80 parts, showcasing a variety of finishes that play with light to spectacular effect. This limited edition of just 20 pieces is a testament to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s commitment to uniting fine artistry with innovative watchmaking.
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