Jaeger-LeCoultre (JLC) is often referred to as the “watchmaker’s watchmaker” because of its deep heritage in in-house innovation, movement development, and artistic craftsmanship. Here’s a solid breakdown of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s history:
1833 – The Birth of LeCoultre
He invented a machine to cut watch pinions with unprecedented precision — setting the tone for JLC’s legacy in innovation.
Founded by Antoine LeCoultre in Le Sentier, Switzerland.
1844 – The Millionomètre
LeCoultre created the Millionomètre, the first instrument capable of measuring a micron, which significantly improved watchmaking precision.
1903 – The Jaeger Connection
This collaboration grew stronger and led to the brand we know today.
Edmond Jaeger, a French watchmaker in Paris, challenged Swiss manufacturers to produce ultra-thin movements.
LeCoultre took the challenge and began supplying Jaeger.
1937 – Jaeger-LeCoultre is Born
- The partnership became official as Jaeger-LeCoultre.
- By then, they had already created groundbreaking watches and complications.
Iconic Watches & Innovations
1929 – Calibre 101
- Still the smallest mechanical movement ever made — fits inside jewelry watches.
- Worn by Queen Elizabeth II during her coronation.
1931 – Reverso
- Born from a request by British polo players in India to create a watch that wouldn’t break during a match.
- The Reverso’s flip case protects the crystal and became an Art Deco icon.
Mid-20th Century – Complication Mastery
- Developed many of the world’s most complex calibers including perpetual calendars, tourbillons, and minute repeaters.
- Supplied movements to brands like Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin.
1950s–60s – Memovox
- Famous for its alarm complication, used in both dress and diving watches.
1970s–80s – Quartz Era & Comeback
- Like most Swiss brands, JLC was affected by the Quartz Crisis.
- Eventually rebounded by focusing on high horology and in-house expertise.
2000 – Richemont Group Era
This gave JLC the platform to expand globally and double down on innovation.
Became part of the Richemont Group, alongside other luxury brands like Cartier, IWC, and Panerai.
Today
- Known for blending technical mastery and artistic watchmaking.
- Core collections:
- Reverso – Classic rectangular dress watch.
- Master Control – Modern round-cased sophistication.
- Polaris – Sporty, inspired by vintage dive watches.
- Duomètre – Features twin gear trains for precision.
- Atmos Clock – Runs on changes in temperature and air pressure.
Jaeger-LeCoultre is a true manufacturer — they make everything in-house, from the simplest movements to the most complex complications, including enameling, engraving, and even their own tools.
