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 JLC once again was 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 features a triad of complications harmoniously arranged throughout the dial, highlighted by a réserve de marche (“power reserve”) indicator in the upper left corner. Boasting dauphine hands, dart-style indices, and Arabic numerals at 12 and 9 o’clock, the style is reserved and classically executed. There’s plenty to love on the reverse side as well, where one is treated to an exhibition view of the beautifully finished automatic caliber 928/2 beating inside. Yet what makes this example truly spectacular is a stunning beads of rice bracelet from JLC that’s fully linked and simply sublime on the wrist. With its sleek look and universally wearable 37mm case, this Réserve De Marche is a clear standout from Jaeger-LeCoultre’s neo-vintage catalog.
Specifications
Brand:
Jaeger-LeCoultre
Model:
Master Control Réserve De Marche
Reference:
140.8.93.S
Year:
2001
Case Number:
No. 1530
Case Material:
Stainless steel
Diameter:
37 mm
Lug Width:
19 mm
Thickness:
9.8 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
43.4 mm
Dial:
Black
Lume:
Super-LumiNova
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Automatic
Caliber:
JLC 928/2
Bracelet/Strap:
JLC stainless steel bracelet
Max Wrist Size:
8 in (20 links)
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.1 in
Condition
Case: The stainless steel case shows normal wear in the form of a few hairlines, faint scuffs, and tiny nicks throughout. There is some moderate scratching on the bezel at 12 o’clock. The lugs are thick and the beveled edges remain present. The caseback is consistent with the rest of the watch. The serial engraving is slightly faint but remains legible. The brand and reference number engravings are crisp and detailed.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The glossy black dial and dauphine hands are in fantastic condition with 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 Jaeger-LeCoultre stainless steel bracelet shows little-to-no stretch with a few hairlines and tiny scuffs throughout. The butterfly clasp closes securely and shows some light desk-diving marks but no major imperfections. The JL engraving remains sharp and legible.
Performance
Functions: All functions including the crown winding, time setting, date setting, and power reserve indicator are working as expected.
Service History: Unknown.
