Swiss luxury watch brand Jaeger-LeCoultre has kicked off this year?s Watches & Wonders trade show with a stunning new interpretation of the Universal Time: Master Grande Tradition Caliber 948. The Manufacture?s famous Métiers Rares (Rare Crafts) Atelier has worked its magic on the timepiece to transform the mechanical masterpiece into a wrist-worn work of art. Starting with the intricate 43mm white gold case of the timepiece, it?s just as complex as the movement housed inside. Made up of more than 80 individual parts, the three-dimensionality of the case adds depth to the timepiece thanks to elements like the convex bezel that contrasts with broad bevels on the lugs, and the hollowed-out lug sides make the design come alive. Additionally, the different surfaces of the case that are micro-blasted, polished, and satin-brushed beautifully complement the complexity of the timepiece.
Coming to the stunning dial of the Master Grande Tradition Caliber 948, it features an intricately-crafted map of the world as seen from the North Pole. Created by the master artisans of JLC?s Métiers Rares atelier, the continents on the map are outlined in white gold and decorated with champlevé enamel, while the landscape details are highlighted with the traditional art of miniature painting. Furthermore, the continents along with the flying tourbillion appear to float on a dial bed of translucent blue lacquer applied over a wavy guilloche pattern that depicts the blue oceans. The ma...