The Master Control has been Jaeger-LeCoultre's flagship collection since its launch in 1992. The newest addition is the "Classic," reminiscent of the original model. Its refined design, reworked to meet current standards, is sure to attract enthusiasts.
Text by Masayuki Hirota (Chronos-Japan)
Edited by Yuto Hosoda (Chronos-Japan)
[Article published in the July 2026 issue of Kronos Japan]
Connoisseurs, hurry up! The 1992 Master is back!
A re-edition of the original Master Control, reinterpreted using modern technology. High-precision movement, high-quality exterior, understated design, and all the elements enthusiasts love. A masterpiece for 2025. Automatic (Cal. 899). 32 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Stainless steel case (36mm diameter, 8.15mm thick). Water resistant to 5 bar. Limited to 500 pieces worldwide. Price: 1,337,600 yen (tax included).
At the 2025 Watches & Wonders Geneva event, I interviewed Jérôme Lambert, CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre. After a lively discussion about the fascinating Reverso and Günter Blümlein, the man who revived the company, he said he had a watch he wanted to show me. He respectfully brought it over to me, and it turned out to be the original Master Control from 1992. However, it was far too well-made to be that. "This is a reissue of the original. We plan to release it as a limited edition later this year," Lambert said.
However, this model is not strictly a reissue. The case size is 36mm, not the 34mm of the Ref. 145 or the 37mm of the Ref. 140. Additionally, the lugs and the date window have been given a three-dimensional shape (a very important improvement), and the dial and faceplate are more precisely aligned, as is typical of the latest models. The movement is the latest version of the Caliber 899. While the original 889 had a power reserve of approximately 38 hours, the latest 899 has a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Furthermore, thanks to the silicon escapement, magnetic resistance has also been greatly improved.
Nevertheless, the watch as a whole exudes a sense of revival because the details are close to the original. The nostalgic brown ostrich strap that comes as standard is sure to excite many watch enthusiasts.
Unfortunately, this model is limited to only 500 pieces, and the price is not cheap, but personally, this is definitely worth buying. After all, this model may look plain at first glance, but it is a watch that fully embodies the charm of the Master Control, which has been carefully crafted down to the smallest detail.
