Photo: Jaeger-LeCoultre
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s third edition of The Collectibles has landed in Singapore, marking a momentous occasion for local collectors and enthusiasts of vintage horology. This exclusive capsule collection showcases 10 rare timepieces, each meticulously restored to preserve their historical gravitas.
For the first time, this outstanding collection is unveiled in Asia, reflecting the Swiss manufacture’s appreciation for the vibrant and growing community of watch collectors in the region. The previous two editions were launched in Switzerland’s Vallee de Joux, and Los Angeles in the US respectively.
Best of history
The Collectibles programme has established itself as a highly coveted series ever since it was introduced in early 2023, in celebration of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s 190th anniversary. Aficionados don’t just get a chance to acquire some of the maison’s most iconic creations, they are also given the fullest assurance that the watches have been thoroughly authenticated and restored by its in-house restoration workshop.
Also published at the same time is an accompanying coffee-table book, an authoritative resource that delves into 17 of the manufacture’s most significant models from the “Golden Age” of watchmaking between the 1920s to 1970s.
Every chapter is dedicated to a trailblazing innovation, such as the Duoplan, Reverso, Memovox, Futurematic, and Geophysic, with the pages coming alive through archival sketches, advertisements, and photographs. Needless to say, all watches offered under The Collectibles programme are drawn from the 17 models represented in this reference book.
The Collectibles coffeetable book boasts 17 chapters, each focusing on a significant model from the 20s to 70s (Photos: Jaeger-LeCoultre)
Perfect 10
Among the 10 exceptional pieces in this third edition are seminal creations that have defined Jaeger-LeCoultre’s pioneering spirit. For men, a unique interpretation of the Reverso — first introduced in 1931 — stands out, while a highly sought-after Memovox Polaris II from 1970 captures attention with its vibrant turquoise dial. Additionally, a 1945 Triple Calendar offers a glimpse into the house’s mastery of complications, and the Master Mariner Deep Sea from 1970 is a fine example of its legacy in sports watchmaking.
Another highlight is a Powermatic from 1949 that makes its debut in The Collectibles programme. This groundbreaking creation features Calibre 481, renowned for its “bumper” automatic winding system and integrated power reserve indicator — an invention that solidified Jaeger-LeCoultre’s place in horological greatness.
A classic 1930s Reverso, a Memovox Polaris II from 1970, and a 1949 Powermatic (Photos: Jaeger-LeCoultre)
For women, Jaeger-LeCoultre presents a trio of exquisitely designed watches, blending technical innovation with elegant aesthetics. A Duoplan Coulissante from 1933, featuring the two-level Duoplan Calibre, is particularly noteworthy for its intricate sliding cover mechanism that conceals and reveals the dial.
A ladies’ Reverso from 1934, with a rare chocolate dial housed in a steel case, offers a distinct vintage allure. Additionally, a circa-1938 Calibre 101 yellow gold bracelet watch showcases one of the world’s smallest mechanical movements, bridging the transition from Art Deco to the sculptural designs that characterised the 1940s.
A 1934 ladies’ Reverso, a Calibre 101 dating back to 1938, and a Duoplan Coulissante from 1933 (Photos: Jaeger-LeCoultre)
Ever faithful
All for sale online and at the Singapore presentation, the timepieces boast their original integrity, with minimal intervention on the case and dial to ensure that the historical essence of each watch remains intact. Every piece is thoroughly vetted by Jaeger-LeCoultre’s historical experts, then restored and fully serviced by its specialised watchmakers.
Currently numbering 10 experts, the restoration team has access to the manufacture’s archives to find the blueprint of every watch ever made. In some cases, the technicians also able to retrieve original spare components. In the event a component cannot be found, there is a stock of some 6,000 swages or stamps that they can use to make an identical item from scratch.
The intervention on the case and dial is kept to a minimum even when there is extensive mechanical restoration (Photo: Jaeger-LeCoultre)
When necessary, original components are sourced from the manufacture’s vast archives or reproduced using original tools, ensuring that every restoration is as faithful to the original as possible. The entire process is carried in-house, thanks to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s fully integrated manufacturing prowess.
The watches will be accompanied by an extract from Jaeger-LeCoultre’s archives, a new strap tailored to match the design, and, where available, the original box and papers. Buyers will also receive a complimentary copy of The Collectibles book, further enhancing the significance of their acquisition.
From now until October 23, the capsule collection is available for private viewing — by appointment only — at Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Marina Bay Sands boutique.
