Jaeger-LeCoultre has once again updated its Duometre a Quantieme Lunaire series with an absolutely stunning Ref. Q6043570 limited-edition model.
Overall Impression
Jaeger-LeCoultre is well known for its ability to magically combine the refinement of a classic complication watch with the mojo of a modern sporty timekeeper. Mixing the two in a perfect proportion, the Swiss-based brand effortlessly churns out gorgeous objects of conspicuous consumption that, like many iterations of the iconic Porsche 911, stay relevant for decades to come.
From the technical point of view, the new limited edition model is identical to the Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometre a Quantieme Lunaire moon phase chronograph that was revealed at the SIHH 2010 trade show.
This new JLC Duometre a Quantieme Lunaire (ref. Q6043570) is one of those timekeepers that look so perfect, it almost hurts.
Mechanism
The model is still powered by the JLC Caliber 381 manually-wound movement that features two independent spring barrels: one for the “main” mechanism and the other for the chronograph movement.
The mechanism was first introduced only about a year ago, so there is still not enough data to make claims regarding its reliability, however, it is already clear that the cal. 381 is accurate for a mechanical movement. Also, it is superbly decorated with its visible parts featuring sunray-style Geneva stripes, as well as the usual screws that have their heads heat-blued and polished. The pair of spring barrels, too, is nicely decorated, although their decor looks more technical and functional.
Case
The case is, too, the same. Still measuring 42 millimeters in diameter and less than 14 millimeters top to bottom, the body looks relatively compact in theory, but in reality -especially for those with thinner wrists- it may feel big on a hand.
Still, the shape of its lugs and the extremely well-crafted leather strap make the timepiece feel comfortable on a wrist: although there is a probability that it just won’t sit well on your hand due to some anatomical features, most persons will love it, I am sure.
Well, perhaps the crown is a bit on a shorter side, but that’s so far the only potential ergonomic problem that I noticed.
It is also nice to note that the Q6043570 is adequately versatile: you can wear it not only with a business suit but also with something more -smart- casual.
Dial
Visually, however, it looks like a new model, thanks to the black non-skeletonized dial that makes the limited edition timepiece look even dressier than the original did.
Jaeger-LeCoultre will limit the production to only 200 pieces that will be presented in stately 18-karat white gold cases.
See also: Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Contemporaine Perpetual Calendar (Ref. 43175/000R-9687)
Photos: Jaeger-LeCoultre
Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometre a Quantieme Lunaire (Ref. Q6043570) specification
Price: $47,000
Movement: Hand-wound, JLC Caliber 381, 33.70 in diameter, 7.25 mm in height, in-house, Swiss Made
Number of jewels: 40
Movement frequency: 21,600 vph
Functions: Hours, minutes, chronograph, moon phase, two power reserve indicator (one for each spring barrel)
Power reserve: 50 hours
Case: 18-karat White gold
Shape: Round
Size: 42.00 mm
Case height: 13.50 mm
Dial: Black
Numerals: Arabic
Hands: Brass, rhodium-plated, polished
Water resistance: 50 meters
Strap: Matte black alligator leather with buckle in 18-karat white gold
Crystal: Sapphire, antireflective
Back: Sapphire
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Bought my first mechanical watch in 1986 and it took me ten more years to realize that I have a problem: at some point in time watches became my passion. Well, it could be worse.