2019 Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris (Date)

- Ships free within US & Canada -

Emerging from the golden-age of dive watches, the JLC Polaris is affectionately recognized as one of the most iconic and respected references of the sport watch category.

So in 2018, when Jaeger-LeCoultre announced that it would not only be re-launching their beloved Polaris, but would also be expanding it into a full collection, with a variation of complications, these watches were met with great fanfare.

Of all the variations in the modern Polaris lineup, this is the one that, in my opinion, most flawlessly balances the old with a new - a near impossible task for any brand reimagining a classic reference for the modern consumer. But after spending some time with this piece, I truly believe they have done it!

With its textured black dial, cream colored Super-LumiNova, and vintage inspired design cues, this variation quite directly calls back to its predecessor from the late 60's, while not shying away from the robustness of a modern-day luxury time-piece. This modern take, is also outfitted in a 42mm case, which is surprisingly true to the original sizing.  

CONDITION & VALUE PROP

Purchased new in 2019, this example has hardly been worn. Aside from a light "desk swirl" on the left side of the case and on the lower left lug (visible in the pictures), and some very small surface scratches on the caseback, this example is in near mint condition. The textured rubber strap is rhobust, yet flexible, and extremely comfortable on the wrist. The strap is enforced by a stamped, stainless steel folding clasp. 

There are currently 6 years left on the extended warranty.

If you were considering one of these watches new, this is a great opportunity to get into a very lightly worn model, for a fraction of the new-watch price.

In my opinion, the watches that makeup the modern Polaris lineup are currently undervalued on the secondary market, and at current prices, demonstrate a great value-prop for anyone valuing both the nostalgia of an iconic reference from an iconic brand, and the reliability offered in a modern watch.

Brand: Jaeger-LeCoultre
Model: Polaris Date
Production Year: 2019
Complications: Date
Case and bezel: Stainless Steel case w. super compressor-style, inner-rotating diver bezel
Case size: 42mm (diameter) & 13.1mm (thickness)
Dial: Matte black (Sunray brushed, grained and opaline finishes)
Lume: Cream Super-LumiNova (applied to the hands and indices)
Depth Rating: 20 bar
Lug Width: 21mm
Strap: Clous de Paris rubber strap with stamped steel clasp
Case Shape: Tonneau (read more about this case shape here)
Movement: Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 899A/1: 
Automatic, self-winding, Components : 219, Vibrations per hour : 28800, Jewels : 32, Barrel : 1, Height : 4.60 mm

INCLUDES: Inner and outer box, hang tag, warranty card, registration and user manual.