Saturday, April 21, 2007

Butterface Of The Week

Jaeger LeCoultre Master Eight Days Perpetual SQ

As much as I've enjoyed JLC's work over the years, I have to say that this limited edition model--although daring in execution--just misses the mark with regards to a skeletonized movement.

For an example of what JLC can accomplish with the art of skeletonizing, we just have to look at the Reverso in white gold. Not only beautiful in case and dial design, but the gold plates and bridges, set off by the blued screws presents a masterpiece in wrist art.


Housed in the familar Master series case made of 950 platinum, the styling is magnificent, if not a little large at 41.5mm. Having saphire crystals back and front, gives the wearer to oportunity to view the skeleton movement. The matt grey alligator strap sports a white gold deployment clasp.

The watch tells the wearer the hours, minutes, date, day, month, year, moon phases, power reserve, day/night indicator and has a red security zone, although it's function I have no idea.

The movement is a JLC (natch) manually-wound calibre 876SQ, built and decorated by hand, has a balance with a 28,800 vibration per hour beat, an eight day power reserve powered by two barrels, 260 parts, 37 jewels and is a mere 6.60 mm thick.

The watch will be limited to 100 peices to be made over several years to give JLC's watchmakers the time needed to build them and recover from the hysterical blindness this watch will no doubt cause. And then fortunately and compassionately, the watch will put to rest. Unless it gets buried in the Pet Cemetary.

Please visit Timezone and read Mike Dishers post about the Master Eight Days Perpetual SQ:

http://forums.timezone.com/index.php?t=tree&goto=2702719&rid=0

No comments: