First debuting in 1992, the Jaeger LeCoultre Master Control is a vintage-inspired collection rooted to the 1950s aesthetic of old with elegant dials, refined constructions and brilliantly executed movements – all benchmarks of JLC’s talents as a watchmaker. Offered here, we have the Master Control Calendar ref. 140.2.87 from the late 1990s to early 2000s. Boasting a stunning silver dial and an 18kt rose gold case that comes in at a perfectly wearable 37mm diameter, this timepiece has everything one would want from JLC, the “watchmaker’s watchmaker.” Boasting applied dagger indices along with applied Arabic numerals at 12, 3 and 9 o’clock that help fill its dial with appealing details, the ref. 140.2.87’s display is reserved and restrained, while still packed with information such as its pointer date function, day and month apertures at 12 o’clock, and running seconds subdial at 6 o’clock, which complete the functions that come with the watch as per its automatic cal. 889 movement. Sporting a flat, yet stepped bezel, gently curving lugs, and just a single crown, the Master Calendar is a wonderfully wearable watch that speaks to the collection’s original source of inspiration, the 1950s, while also celebrating JLC’s impressive craftsmanship.

The watch is in overall very good condition. The yellow gold case has light scratches and some light nicks on the bezel and lugs. The case back has well-defined engravings. The dial is generally excellent, except for a noticeable scratch on the edge of the 12 in the calendar track. The gold hands have developed some patina and the date hand shows light oxidation. The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap with a Jaeger-LeCoultre gold buckle that has light scratches.

Just exactly why JLC are the "Watchmaker's watchmaker," it is timepieces like the Master Calendar that highlight JLC's incredible talents in watchmaking, watch design, and artisanal execution.