SIHH 2009: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Minute Repeater Watch

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Minute Repeater watch proudly reiterates the skill of the "Grand Maison" in the art of exceptional luxury watchmaking. Part of a new collection which also features a tourbillon with perpetual calendar, the Grande Tradition Minute repeater gives an exceptional presentation of a celebrated complication, whose brilliance is elevated by innovative technical solutions.

Manufactured by Jaeger-LeCoultre, the exceptional manually-wound 947R movement within the Master Grande Tradition Minute Repeater watch unites 430 parts in the narrow space of 9.60 millimeters. To amplify the chimes of the minute repeater--which strikes hours, quarter hours, and individual minutes upon request--Jaeger-LeCoultre developed gongs with a square rather than circular cross section, manufacturing them from an exclusive material whose formulation remains a company secret. Beyond the innovative repeater mechanism, horological innovation is abundant in the escapement, where the use of diamond-coated silicon components optimizes efficiency through the amelioration of friction. A variable inertia balance beats at a pace of 21,600 beats per hour. Also notable is the remarkable 14-day power reserve, whose status is revealed via an indicator on the dial.

The Jaeger-LeCoultre 947R movement is also a showcase of traditional haute horlogerie workmanship, with its richly decorated bridges in nickel silver. This artistry is revealed in full through a sapphire crystal exhibition back; an integral magnifier exposes the fascinating workings of the silicon escapement. An opaline white dial combines grandeur and technical fascination with its contrasting guilloche and satin finishes, regulator hour display, and elliptical aperture for the repeater hammers.

Presented in a 45mm case manufactured from 18-karat yellow gold, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Minute Repeater watch features a curved sapphire crystal, and a strap in hand-sewn alligator leather. Water resistance is rated for 50 meters. Just 300 examples of this complicated model will be produced.