Jaeger-LeCoultre - Polaris Chronograph, new 2023 models

Jaeger-LeCoultre presented two new Polaris Chronograph models with grey (Q902843J) or blue dial (Q9028181). Prices from €15,900

In 2018, Jaeger-LeCoultre presented the new Polaris collection inspired by the iconic Memovox Polaris watch from 1968. The line, which also included a chronograph model, is now enriched with two new Polaris Chronograph variations characterized by visually striking dials that showcase the manufacturing skills of La Grande Maison.

These dials have lacquered surfaces – one in deep blue and the other in a warm grey, a new color in Jaeger-LeCoultre’s portfolio. They are composed of a central disc and a middle ring to which the hour markers are applied, along with an outer ring marked with the tachymeter scale.

On both the central disc and the hours ring, the colour of the lacquer is graduated from light to dark, adding visual depth to the dials. 

The lacquering process is lengthy and challenging, with each layer of coating being applied manually. It starts with a clear coat of varnish, followed by a layer of color, and then 35 coats of translucent lacquer to add depth and richness. The process concludes by polishing the components to achieve a bright mirror finish.

The layout of the new Polaris Chronograph dial offers excellent readability, with large skeletonized hands and bold trapezoid-shaped indexes filled with luminescent coating.

Balanced by the 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, the sub-dial at 9 o'clock has been redesigned to showcase a running seconds display, replacing the 12-hour counter found in the 2018 models.

The circular graining of these sub-dials adds contrast to the high gloss of the lacquered surfaces and the opaline finish of the outer ring. The orange accents add dynamism to the ensemble.

The sapphire crystal case-back reveals the manufacture automatic movement, Calibre 761 operating at the frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour).

Powered by twin barrels, the fully integrated chronograph movement features a column-wheel chronograph mechanism with vertical clutch and offers a 65-hour power reserve.

 

Finishes include blued screws and Côtes de Genève decoration on the baseplate as well as on the signature open-worked winding rotor bearing the ‘JL’ motif. 

 

The 42 mm stainless steel case alternates between brushed and polished surfaces and features the key Polaris design elements: taut lines, sharply curving lugs, a thin bezel, and a glass-box crystal. Water resistance is guaranteed up to a pressure of 10 bar (100 metres / 330 feet).

Each new Polaris Chrongraph is accompanied by a package of two easily interchangeable straps: the blue dial is complemented by a steel bracelet and a blue rubber strap textured with a ‘Clous de Paris’ pattern, while the grey dial is complemented by a beige canvas strap and a similarly textured black rubber strap.

The new Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Chronograph is priced at Euro 15,900 / US$ 14,300 with a grey dial (ref. Q902843J) and Euro 16,500 / US$ 14,800 with a blue dial (ref. Q9028181). jaeger-lecoultre.com