The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Compressor Chronograph is defined by its patented compression key crowns, an innovative solution for water resistance developed by the manufacture. This system requires only a half-turn of the external wing-nuts to seal the crown, with a visible white or red indicator confirming its secured or unsecured state.
The Master Compressor line, launched in the early 2000s, marked a significant push for JLC into the robust, technical sports watch segment, drawing design inspiration from its 1965 Polaris dive watch. Powering this reference is the in-house Calibre 751, a technically proficient automatic chronograph movement featuring a vertical clutch and column-wheel architecture.
Since its founding in Switzerland's Vallée de Joux in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre, Jaeger-LeCoultre has established itself as a true manufacture, bringing nearly every aspect of watchmaking under one roof. This comprehensive in-house capability has earned it the esteemed title of "the watchmaker's watchmaker," as it historically supplied movements to many other prestigious brands.
The brand's portfolio is defined by both profound technical mastery and iconic design. Jaeger-LeCoultre is responsible for horological milestones such as the Calibre 101, which remains the world's smallest mechanical movement, and the near-perpetual Atmos clock, powered by minute changes in ambient temperature. Perhaps its most recognizable creation is the Reverso, a watch born from the need for a durable timepiece for polo players in 1931, which features a unique swiveling case that has become a celebrated icon of Art Deco design.
Overall Grade: 9 / 10 | Mint, Light Visible Wear Production: 2006 Contents: Full-set Genre: Chronograph
Size: 41.5mm Thickness: 13.7mm Lug Width: 21mm
Case: Stainless steel case, mirror finished, light visible wear Bezel: Stainless steel, fixed dome bezel, mirror finished, light visible wear Dial: Black dial, printed markers, recessed sub-dials, tachymetre chapter ring Hands: Steel broad dauphine hands, lumed
Crown: Steel compression key system crown and pushers with locking indicator, light visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, light visible wear Bracelet: Black original leather strap, AM blue strap included Caseback: Solid stainless steel secured by four screws, featuring the "Master 1000 Hours Control" medallion, light visible wear Movement: Automatic Chronograph Caliber: 751, Automatic in-house column-wheel chronograph with vertical clutch