Manufacturer: Jaeger-LeCoultre Year: 1940 Reference No: 2609 Case No: 617'413 Model Name: System-G. Material: 14K pink gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 285, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Lizard Clasp/Buckle: Metal pin buckle Dimensions: 34.5mm. Diameter Signed: Dial and movement signed, case numbered
Catalogue Essay
The present watch is a highly interesting chronograph wristwatch. Made for a left-handed individual, the crown is positioned on the left side of the watch, enabling it to be worn on the right wrist. Most unusual is the System G. signature at 12 o'clock. It most likely stands for "System Gaucher", meaning the watch was designed for a left-handed wear.
The markers on the "sandwich" dial are particularly noteworthy as they are sunken. A gold plate is situated below the top dial, allowing the numerals to shine through in relief. This design provides a very unusual appearance to the wristwatch.
The case is furthermore preserved in very good condition and a 14k hallmark is visible on the left side of the case.
Not all companies in the watchmaking field have been able to stand the test of time quite like Jaeger LeCoultre, also known as the "watchmaker's watchmaker." Founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre and originally named LeCoutre, the firm provided watchmaking's top brands, such as Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin and Audemars Piguet, the high-grade, unfinished mechanical movements with which they completed their watches.
In the early 1900s, Cartier's watch supplier Edmond Jaeger sought out LeCoultre's help in creating the world's thinnest watches. The collaboration resulted in the creation of Cartier's earliest Tank and Santos watches, all housed with LeCoultre movements. The duo decided to merge in 1937, and the firm officially became the Jaeger-LeCoultre brand by which collectors know and adore it today. Some of the firm's most significant and important timepieces include the Reverso, the Memovox, the Atmos clock and, among modern watches, their Master Complications.