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. 1611
Case Material:
Stainless steel
Diameter:
37 mm
Lug Width:
19 mm
Thickness:
10.3 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
43.3 mm
Dial:
Black
Lume:
Super-LumiNova
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Automatic
Caliber:
JLC 891/448
Bracelet/Strap:
JLC tan alligator strap with signed deployant buckle
Max Wrist Size:
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in
Condition
Case: The stainless steel case shows light wear in the form of a few hairlines, tiny nicks, and faint scratches, the most notable of which are on the case sides. The overall impression is clean. The lugs are nice and thick with excellent definition at the edges and chamfers still present. The caseback has a few more hairlines, tiny nicks, and light scratches than the top case, but it's still in good overall condition. The brand, reference, and serial number engravings remain detailed and legible.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The glossy black dial and dauphine hands are in fantastic condition. The Super-LumiNova across the dial and hands functions and glows consistently. The front sapphire crystal has one tiny scratch above the "Automatique" text. The rear sapphire crystal is squeaky clean and scratch-free.
Bracelet/Strap: The JLC alligator strap shows moderate signs of wear with some creasing around the buckle holes and darkening of the leather backing. A couple small sections of the side painting have partially worn away as well, but the strap still has plenty of life left to give. The deployant buckle has some hairlines and a few faint nicks. The logo engraving remains crisp and intact.
Performance
Functions: All functions including the crown winding, time setting, and push buttons are working as expected.
Service History: Unknown.
