Jaeger LeCoultre has just released one of their most iconic watches in black ceramic. The Master Compressor Chronograph carries one of the simplest layouts in that series and has been a first choice for those looking for a serious sports watch with a classy finish. Ceramic was chosen for this watch because of its scratch resistance and its superior strength over stainless steel. In fact, ceramic is two and a half times stronger than steel.
The case features case dimensions of 46mm, which is considered oversized. The case height comes in at a thick 14.65mm above the wrist. The watch’s robust dimensions, hint at the durability of the piece. The ceramic is satin finished which enhance the sporty aesthetics of the Master Compressor Chronograph. For contrast, the chronograph pushers and Master Compressor main crown are crafted from brushed stainless steel. The ridged main crown is screw locked and it maintains the 100 meters (330 feet). Jaeger LeCoultre lists the strap as being made from High Tech Material. Securing the strap to the wrist is a traditional pin buckle sized to 22mm and made also from black ceramic.
The dial is grey and features luminous index hour markers. The hour marker at 12 is rendered as an Arabic numeral. The hands are partially skeletonized and are also luminous making for legibility of the time under varying light conditions. There is a third central hand without lume, which indicates the second time zone. The small seconds are located in a subdial at the 6 position. The chronograph minutes and hours can be found in counters at the 3 and 9 positions respectively. The chronograph seconds hand is central and colored red for maximum readability against the grey dial. The date aperture is located at 4:30 for easy referencing. The vaulted flange carries a seconds track for precision timing. Just below the 12 position is a day/night indicator.
Running the Jaeger LeCoultre Master Compressor Chronograph is an in house made self-winding movement caliber 757. This movement is comprised of 300 parts and carries a double barrel system, which boasts a 65 hour power reserve. The caliber 757 beats at a constant 28,800 vibrations per hour. The oscillating rotor is decorated with Cotes Circulaires and gold toned inscriptions “1000 Hours Control” and the name of the brand – Jaeger LeCoultre.
