When Jaeger-LeCoultre opened its Métiers Rares Atelier in 2016 on its Vallée de Joux premises, it showed how much the Swiss watchmaker prized its artistic capabilities. Not that the manufacture was never focused on the decorative side of horology, of course - it is, after all, one of the few watchmakers in the world that can develop, produce and decorate all its timepieces within its own workshops.
This atelier for rare crafts brings together all of Jaeger-LeCoultre's artisans, including enamellers, chamferers, gem-setters and engravers, who used to work on separate floors, so that they are able to interact and work together more cohesively and creatively. This also serves as a showcase for the maison's full range of crafting skills and expertise. While not everyone has the opportunity to visit the facility, there is much to discover and learn just from the creations that have been made by the very hands of these expert craftsmen. Here, we highlight key artistic disciplines at the manufacture and a few masterpieces that have emerged from it.
ENAMELLING
The age-old art form is a decorative technique often used in watchmaking, whether to create glossy dials in deep, rich and uniform hues or to produce exquisite patterns and artworks of spectacular colours and intricacy.
At Jaeger-LeCoultre, it is an important technique that the maison showcases its artistic expertise with. Exquisite enamelling is seen on both wristwatches and larger masterpieces, such as the one-of-a-kind Atmos Régulateur "Cherry Blossom" from last year.
This story is from the March 2023 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 2023 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Power To The People
Boucheron creative director Claire Choisne's latest high-jewellery creations are stylish statements of authority and achievement.
Walking into the Blue
Dive into luxury at Depth of Blue, Johnnie Walker Blue Label's first flagship bar in Southeast Asia. Dive into luxury at Depth of Blue, Johnnie Walker Blue Label's first flagship bar in Southeast Asia.
IN THE FLOW
For ANDRÉ FU, travel isn't so much a means of inspiration as it is a way to detach from everyday life to approach his work from fresh perspectives.
CHIC VOLUMES
Impractically oversized but utterly beautiful tomes featuring an eclectic subject, coffee table books serve to kick-start conversations in addition to being subtle avenues of sophisticated self-expression. Here are six titles to consider having on your living room table.
VICTOR OVER TIME
35 years after they broke convention as renegade art students, Phillip Lim catches up with eminent artist SUZANN VICTOR to reminisce about past escapades and how far the artist has come.
Circle of Friends
A Singapore family that has set up a second home in remote Kenya shares their connection with the local communities with guests of their lodge.
VIVE LA WEAVE
Chanel's latest high jewellery collection celebrates the innovation that put her squarely in the pantheon of legendary fashion designers.
VIEW BEYOND THE RACES
For Richard Mille, life in the fast lane is more than just performance-driven machines, it's a profound appreciation for excellence in various forms.
OFF TO THE FAIR
Watch clients are increasingly dropping into Watches and Wonders, a trade fair meant for retailers and media personnel. Here's why.
STEP LIVELY
In the original design of Hermès' Mon Premier Galop shawl by Chinese artist Tong Ren, a horse with an awkward yet happy gait is depicted in simple lines, colour blocks, and decorative-trimming inspired by traditional basketry.