Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. The New Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Classic 36mm, The Return of a 1995 Timeless Watch
A faithful revival of 1990s elegance in a compact, modern form and an homage to simplicity and the purity of classical design.
Since its debut in 1992, the Master Control collection by Jaeger-LeCoultre has embodied the brand’s refined approach to timeless design and precision. The line was introduced as the first to undergo the Manufacture’s 1000-Hour Control testing, a rigorous in-house certification of accuracy and reliability applied to the complete watch, not just the movement. Decades later, the Master Control, just like the Reverso, remains a cornerstone of the catalogue, praised for its understated aesthetic and mechanical integrity.
This year, the brand returns to the origins of the series with the Master Control Classic, a limited edition of 500 pieces, inspired by a 1995 reference. The new model celebrates the enduring appeal of simplicity through faithful proportions, a minimalist dial, and an updated movement that continues the Master Control legacy with contemporary performance.
Housed in a compact, elegant and restrained 36mm stainless steel case (in line with the current market expectations), just two millimetres larger than its historic predecessor, the Master Control Classic retains the balanced proportions and rounded contours that defined the original. The case is 8.15mm thick, keeping the overall profile slim and elegant on the wrist. Alternating polished and satin-brushed surfaces highlight the clarity of the design. The solid steel caseback features the signature Master Control medallion, recalling the earliest models of the 1990s.
The silver sunray-brushed dial adheres closely to the 1995 layout, defined by its legibility and symmetry. Elongated triangular hour markers are paired with luminescent dots and faceted Dauphine hands, combining traditional design codes with subtle functionality. The blued central seconds hand adds visual contrast, also animating the dial with a touch of colour. A framed date window at 3 o’clock does not disturbe the balance of the composition and adds everyday practicality.
While the Master Control Classic looks to the past for aesthetic, it is powered by the latest evolution of the in-house Calibre 899, one of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s most versatile automatic movements. Originally introduced in the early 2000s, the calibre has undergone a series of technical updates, including optimised components and improved energy management. In its current variant, it delivers a 70-hour power reserve, with greater stability in timekeeping. The calibre operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations/hour and, like all Master Control models, is tested for accuracy and performance under the brand´s 1000-Hour Control protocol.
The watch is worn on a brown ostrich leather strap with light contrast stitching, closed with a stainless steel pin buckle. The natural texture and warm tone of the strap enhance the nostalgic appeal of the piece while complementing the cool tones of the steel case and silvery dial. As you can see below, it also works nicely on a feminine wrist.
The new Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Classic is limited to 500 examples, immediately available, and the price is EUR 8,950 or USD 8,950. More information at jaeger-lecoultre.com.
