BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
Jaeger-LeCoultre, the venerable Swiss watchmaker with a penchant for playing with cogs and springs, has unveiled a new iteration of its Master Ultra Thin Power Reserve (Q137258J, if you’re asking). At first glance, this might look like a dress watch, but in essence this is far from a grandpa’s Jaeger-LeCoultre, it’s a sly tango of elegance and innovation where it proudly displays its gradient midnight blue sunray dial with elongated markers and gleaming Dauphine hands.
As the saying goes, “Don’t fix what isn’t broken,” and Jaeger-LeCoultre adheres to this wisdom while subtly refining the case of the Master Ultra Thin Power Reserve. With dimensions measuring 39mm in diameter and 8.95mm in thickness, the case retains its classic proportions. However, the design sees a subtle modernization with slimmer, elongated lugs for enhanced wrist comfort.
The classic sunray dial in midnight blue is not an unfamiliar sight for Master Thin Ultra, but look closer and you’ll see it’s a gradient, deepening like the ocean at twilight. It’s subtle, sure, but that’s the beauty of Jaeger-LeCoultre; they whisper their innovations, not scream them. Larger sub-dials, elongated applied hour markers, and Dauphine hands with polished and satin finishes contribute to the refined aesthetic, creating a visually stunning contrast against the warm tone of the pink gold case.
But the true marvel lies within. Visible through the transparent sapphire crystal case back, the upgraded Calibre 938, which has been on a serious workout routine is now packing an greatly extended 70-hour power reserve, a major leap from the previous version’s 43 hours. Jaeger-LeCoultre pulled it off with a clever redesign of the mainspring barrel and some strategic silicon sprinkles in key components. While it may not be revolutionary, it’s quite an improvement that speaks volumes about JLC’s dedication to their craft.
Completing the package is a luxurious navy-blue alligator strap, equipped with quick-change spring bars and secured by a pink gold pin buckle. The 21mm lug width allows for easy strap changes. At a retail price of EUR 23,200 / USD 21,200, the new Master Ultra Thin Power Reserve offers exceptional value for its exquisite blend of refined aesthetics and cutting-edge technical prowess.
