Jaeger-LeCoultre and the Deep Sea Vintage Chronograph

Few companies have embraced the “vintage inspired” trend with more enthusiasm (and success) than Jaeger-LeCoultre. JLC has a wonderful horological history and many classic models on which they can draw inspiration for new designs or tributes to past models. With notable examples like the lovely Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931 and the gorgeous Memovox Tribute to Deep Sea, JLC has a firm grasp on their strengths in both aesthetic watch design and technical innovations. The latest model to join their vintage brigade is the Deep Sea Vintage Chronograph (ref: 207857J) which builds on the success of 2011’s Memovox Tribute to Deep Sea by incorporating a two register chronograph into its vintage diver DNA.

The Deep Sea Vintage Chronograph comes only as pictured (right) sporting a 40.5 mm stainless steel case, plexiglass crystal, and matte black dial with “tropic” colored luminous markers and hands. The lume choice, along with the rest of the styling, is meant to be reminiscent of JLC Deep Sea watches from the late 50s and 60’s. Timekeeping and chronograph duties are managed by the JLC calibre 751G which is an automatic movement with 37 jewels and a 65 hour power reserve. This model is about style and historic brand DNA so it’s not surprising that it lacks any of the haute horology complications that JLC is incorporating into some of their other models seen at SIHH this year (see the JLC Duometre a Spherotourbillon).

The Deep Sea Vintage Chronograph is an excellent design that sports a modern movement and is the result of the strength of the original Deep Sea models as well as the JLC brand. Given the excellent style and JLC’s position as one of the most respected manufactures in the watch world we are quite sure the Deep Sea Vintage Chronograph will be a hit, even with a rumored price point above $10, 000.

The guys from Hodinkee.com got to see the Deep Sea Vintage Chronograph in person at SIHH this week, they posted some great photos here.