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Before actually fondling the Platinum 2. I was somewhat skeptical and jotted down my cynicism
in my mind like so:
- Why not XGT size? too lazy to design a new XGT size Tourbillon?
- In a year of too many Tourbillons, who needs another?
- JLC will actually produce 500 Tourbillons in 2 years, probably more than all the other
manufacturers combined, in the same period.
JLC created an exceptional Tourbillon calibre 828. In 1993, successfully squeezed probably the
first rectangular Tourbillon movement in a relatively small Grand Taille Reverso case. It
continued to impress the industry after the now legendary 60eme.
(The 1993 Limited Edition Reverso Tourbillon)
Platinum is the hardest precious material to machine, and Jaeger-LeCoultre successfully
used this metal to make the complicated watch case in 2001, the Platinum 1 Reverso, featured
a white gold skeletonised movement.
Ten Years After, the Platinum 2 Tourbillon this year is a natural product evolution,
a Platinum Grand Taille Reverso Tourbillon, featuring the new Calibre 848 with full 18ct solid
white gold Bridges and plates (small parts are rhodium plated except for the balance which is
gold plated).
(The first Platinum Reverso, The Platinum 1 with skeleton movement)
In the initial stage, the development team considered a Platinum 2 in a more trendy XGT case,
which should be more contemporary and perhaps easier to market. The team finally decided to
target purists collectors and devotees who are essentially in pursuit of horological
accomplishments and beautiful mechanism, rather than the more fashion conscious accessories
buyer.
Continuing its tradition of launching a limited edition complication annually is a conscious choice
by JLC to bring together each year the talents of its craftsmen in order to rise to a challenge
which will then take shape within a Limited Series, delivered over a one to two year period,
depending on production constraints.
Having played with the watch, all the faults are forgiven and I am now blinded only by the
positive attribute of this watch. Let me count the ways:
(Platinum 2 Tourbillon, Dial View
note the unusual power reserve pointer in the centre)
- The calibre 848 is a genuine gem of craftsmanship, the new "cotes Soleillees" pattern radiating
around the tourbillon carriage is a sight to behold. and this exquisite movement finishing is never
seen in a JLC before. And I would safely declare that it is now a Tourbillon finished to the level
of A Lange & Sohne with a JLC sticker price
- I also like the movement engravings with ink finish, not a particular technical challenge,
but pleasantly complementary to the movement aesthetic.
- The pointer-type power-reserve display in the centre of the dial is unconventional and looks
a little akward initially, and can be at times hidden behind the minute or even the hour hand. It
took me just 3 minutes to realise that this power-reserve position is exceedingly rare for a
tourbillon and the look does grow on you gradually.
- The two-tone ruthenium-grey and silvered shade solid gold dial is also of exceptional quality,
understated, but classy.
(Exquisite sapphire case-back view)
In summary, This is an exceptionally beautiful watch with top class finished movement, a classic
looking and understated basic watch when worn dial-up, with a solid (beating) heart of gold
(movement) and I have no doubt all skeptics will change their mind when they hold one in their
hands.
I leave you with brief comparisons of (approximate) retail prices of most currently available
tourbillons:
Data sheet
| JLC Platinum 2 | CHF 87,750.- |
Blancpain 8 days Tourbillon | CHF 88,900.- |
Breguet | CHF 107,000.- |
Parmigiani | CHF 128,000.- |
A Lange & Sohne | CHF 129,000.- |
Vacheron Constantin | CHF 141,500.- |
Audemars Piguet Canape | CHF 175,000.- |
(Movement View, Platinum 2)
(Another view of this amazing case-back)
Jaw
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