In celebration of the upcoming Year of the Dragon, Jaeger-LeCoultre has introduced the Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 ‘Dragon’. Limited to just five pieces, this pink gold timepiece blends the brand’s mastery of horological complications with stunning artistic craftsmanship. As watchmakers increasingly release limited editions to mark this significant year in the Chinese zodiac, the Master Hybris Artistica ‘Dragon’ stands out with its intricately hand-engraved dragon design, Cosmotourbillon, and advanced minute repeater, bringing the legend of the dragon to life on the wrist.
Technical Specifications
- Reference: Q52624A3
- Movement: Manual mechanical Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 945
- Functions: Hours and minutes, zodiac calendar, 24-hour display, sidereal time, Cosmotourbillon, celestial disc with real-time constellations, minute repeater
- Power Reserve: 40 hours
- Case Size: 45 mm x 16.05 mm
- Material: Pink gold, 750/1000 (18 karats)
- Water Resistance: 5 bar (50 meters)
- Strap: Alligator leather with small-scale alligator lining
- Limited Edition: 5 pieces
Celebrating the Year of the Dragon
With the Year of the Dragon approaching, Jaeger-LeCoultre joins the growing number of watchmakers releasing special limited-edition timepieces to mark this important event in the Chinese zodiac. The dragon, a symbol of power, strength, and good fortune, is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. Jaeger-LeCoultre’s decision to honor this mythical creature with a bespoke watch demonstrates the Manufacture’s commitment to merging artistic inspiration with technical innovation.
Mythical Inspiration and Celestial Mastery
The Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 ‘Dragon’ draws its artistic inspiration from both celestial movements and the mythical dragon. Jaeger-LeCoultre’s renowned Calibre 945 has been elevated to new heights, featuring a Cosmotourbillon that orbits the dial in one sidereal day, while a Northern Hemisphere sky vault displays real-time constellations. The watch symbolizes the dragon’s connection to both heaven and earth, blending mythological symbolism with technical mastery.
First created in 2010, the Calibre 945 combines astronomical timekeeping with a minute repeater, showcasing Jaeger-LeCoultre’s technical prowess. The celestial vault tracks constellations visible from the 46th parallel, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s home in the Vallée de Joux, offering a unique connection between the stars and the wearer.
A Dial Brought to Life with Dragons
The Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 ‘Dragon’ features a mesmerizing dial that highlights hand-engraved three-dimensional dragons sculpted from 18-karat pink gold. These dragons wrap around the raised sky chart, moving in harmony with the Cosmotourbillon as it completes its daily rotation. Below, a matte black sandblasted disc, dotted with stars, enhances the watch’s cosmic theme.
The dial also features a zodiacal calendar, with clearly marked months and tourbillon seconds. Three concentric rings encircle the dial, each with distinct textures that add depth and elegance. The dragon’s majestic presence on the dial emphasizes the importance of the Year of the Dragon in Chinese culture.
The Romance of Celestial Timekeeping
The minute repeater in the Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 elevates the celestial experience by chiming the exact time through advanced acoustic innovations like crystal gongs, trébuchet hammers, and a silent interval governor. These patented features create harmonious chimes, making this watch not only a visual masterpiece but also an auditory celebration of time.
An Exceptional Case for an Extraordinary Calibre
The pink gold case of the Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 ‘Dragon’ is designed to complement its artistic complexity. Hand-engraved scales on the bezel mirror the intricate details of the dragon, showcasing Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Métiers Rares™ atelier. The combination of micro-blasting, satin, and polished finishes adds further refinement, making this timepiece as much a work of art as it is a technical marvel.
A Rare Collector’s Piece for the Year of the Dragon
Limited to just five pieces, the Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 ‘Dragon’ is a rare collector’s item that celebrates the Year of the Dragon in true haute horlogerie style. This watch will surely captivate collectors seeking an exquisite blend of technical innovation and artistic excellence, embodying the strength and elegance of the mythical dragon.
For more details, visit Jaeger-LeCoultre’s website here.
