Jaeger-LeCoultre is a Swiss watchmaking and clockmaking firm based in Le Sentier in the Vallée de Joux, renowned for its technical innovation and for producing movements for many other prestigious brands. The company traces its origins to the workshop founded by Antoine LeCoultre in 1833, and the Jaeger-LeCoultre name came into use following its association with the Paris-based Edmond Jaeger in the early twentieth century.
The firm is famous for the Reverso wristwatch, introduced in 1931, whose case can be turned over to protect the dial, originally for polo players, and for the Atmos clock, which is powered by small changes in air temperature and can run for long periods without winding. Jaeger-LeCoultre also made a remarkable range of calibres, including very small and very thin movements, and supplied dashboard clocks and instruments. Collectors look for original dials, cases and movements, correct serial numbers, documentation and boxes, and evidence of proper servicing. Atmos clocks are particularly popular as desk and mantel clocks and should be moved only after the mechanism has been locked. Vintage examples by the firm are widely regarded as fine examples of Swiss watchmaking.
