5 Expensive Jaeger-LeCoultre Watches
With a history tracing back to 1833, Jaeger-LeCoultre is one of the oldest watchmakers still in business. In nearly 200 years of operation, the watchmaker has created some of the finest timekeeping devices and continues this tradition today. Keep reading to see five of the most expensive Jaeger-LeCoultre watches ever made.
5. Gyrotourbillon I — $404,000
With only 20 made a year, the Gyrotourbillon I is as elusive as it is expensive. With 679 parts, this timepiece features extraordinary complications. One of the most impressive is the tourbillon which, though primarily aesthetic, negates the effects of gravity on the movement for the most accurate timekeeping. Though very few are made, this piece does find its way to auction houses on the rare occasion, usually selling for around $400,000.
4. Atmos 561 by Marc Newson Clock — $425,000
Though not techincally a watch, the Atmos 561 deserves a mention. The Atmos clock is a unique and unusual because it does not require batteries, winding or electricity. The clock, developed in 1928, is powered by a mixture of gases, temperature and atmospheric pressure. This edition of the clock was redesigned by Marc Newson, an industrial designer recently involved Apple watch designs. Only 888 of the Atmos 561 by Marc Newson were issued. In a 2013 Sotheby’s auction, one sold for $425,000.
3. Reverso Complication a Triptyque – $600,000
The Reverso is one of the most iconic Jaeger-LeCoultre designs of all time. The original model had a dial that could flip to protect it from damage during laborious tasks. The Reverso Complication a Triptyque displays three versions of time on three unique faces. The watch displays civil time, sidereal time and perpetual time. This piece comes at a cost of $600,000.
2. Hybris Mechanica a Grande Sonnerie — $2.5 million
In 2009, this was the most complicated wristwatch, though the title has since been taken by Vacheron Constantin. In total there are 26 complications, including a perpetual calendar and unique chime function that mimics the chimes of Westminster. The timepiece also features an intricate, 1,300-part flying tourbillon and partially skeletonized case. With only 30 of these made, the watch will cost you $2.5 million.
1. Calibre 101 for Her Majesty the Queen — Price: Unknown
Im 2012, on the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, JLC gifted Her Majesty a calibre 101. The tiny watch was made as an homage the one she wore on the day of her coronation, which was also a JLC calibre 101. The calibre 101 is the smallest watch movement ever made, weighing less than one gram. The case is surrounded by a bracelet of diamonds set in white gold as an elegant example of haute joaillerie from the watchmaker.
Photo Credit: jaeger-lecoultre.com / sothebys.com