Overview
In 1992, Jaeger-LeCoultre debuted the vintage-inspired Master Control collection as a tribute to the brand’s unmatched watchmaking heritage. No longer just “the watchmaker’s watchmaker”, the Master Control collection ushered in a new era where the company was once again dedicated to exceptional watchmaking and production under its own name. Throughout the years the collection has seen a number of horology’s most famous complications including the moonphase indicator, triple calendar, chronograph, world timer, 8 days power reserve, and perpetual calendar. What’s more, each Master Control watch has undergone the brand’s strict “1,000 Hour Control” testing period, during which the movement is cased, rigorously examined beyond COSC certification protocols, and hand-adjusted for accuracy in six positions.
The watch here combines the romanticism of the moonphase indicator with the practicality of the triple calendar to create a single stunning timepiece. Boasting dauphine hands, dart-style indices, and Arabic numerals at 12, 3, and 9 o’clock, the style of this watch is reserved and classically executed. Yet the radial date and two central apertures contain splashes of red that liven up the dial, giving it just enough flair to capture one’s attention throughout the day. The back of the watch commands another look as well, showing off the impressively finished 891/448 automatic caliber with a 22C gold-tipped rotor that proudly displays the Master Control 1,000 Hours certification. With its sleek look and universally wearable 37mm case, this Master Calendar is a perfect encapsulation of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s beloved watchmaking prowess.
Specifications
Brand:
Jaeger-LeCoultre
Model:
Master Control Calendar
Reference:
140.8.98.S
Year:
2000s
Case Number:
No. 2170
Case Material:
Stainless steel
Diameter:
37 mm
Lug Width:
19 mm
Thickness:
10.3 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
43.3 mm
Dial:
Silver
Lume:
Super-LumiNova
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Automatic
Caliber:
JLC 891/448
Bracelet/Strap:
Molequin anthracite grained calfskin strap with JLC deployant buckle
Max Wrist Size:
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in
Condition
Case: The stainless steel case shows minimal wear in the form of a few hairlines, tiny nicks, and a couple faint scuffs. The overall impression is very clean. The lugs are thick and well-defined with chamfers still present at the edges. The condition of the caseback is consistent with the rest of the watch. The brand and model number engravings are sharp and deep. The serial number is shallower, but remains legible.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The silver dial and polished dauphine hands are in fantastic condition with only micro wear under a loupe and no notable imperfections. The Super-LumiNova across the dial and hands functions and glows consistently. Both front and rear sapphire crystals are squeaky clean and scratch-free.
Bracelet/Strap: The Molequin grained calfksin strap is in pristine condition with very little wear. The additional black alligator strap is in similar condition. The JLC deployant clasp shows a few tiny scuffs and micro nicks, but is clean overall. The brand engraving remains crisp and detailed.
Performance
Functions: All functions including the crown winding, time setting, and push buttons are working as expected.
Service History: Unknown.
