Introducing The Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Chronograph with Ocean Grey Lacquer Dial

Since 1833, Jaeger-LeCoultre has stood as one of the most revered maisons in Swiss horology, mastering the art of high complications and elegant design. Over nearly two centuries, the Manufacture has shaped the watchmaking landscape with an unrivaled capacity for crafting in-house movements used by a variety of prestigious watch brands.

Among the maison’s modern pillars is the Polaris collection, a line that reimagines Jaeger-LeCoultre’s iconic diving watches of the 1960s into versatile, contemporary companions. Since its debut in 2018, Polaris has forged a distinct identity that straddles refined elegance and rugged adventure. This year, that spirit continues with the unveiling of the Polaris Chronograph in a captivating new Ocean Grey lacquer.

Housed in a 42mm stainless steel case with a thickness of 13.39mm, the new Polaris Chronograph retains the bold character of the collection. The sharply curved lugs, slim bezel, and glass-box sapphire crystal lend it vintage charm. The case also features a large screw-down crown and chronograph pushers. Flip the watch over, and you’re greeted by a transparent sapphire caseback that reveals the movement within, and ensures 100 meters of water resistance.

The star of the show is undoubtedly the Ocean Grey lacquer dial. Composed of three concentric zones, the central disc, hour ring, and tachymeter flange, it is the result of a painstaking, multi-step process involving 35 hand-applied layers of lacquer. A subtle gradient darkens toward the edges, while sunray brushing and glossy finishes play with the light.

Orange accents energize the layout, from the chronograph seconds hand to highlights on the sub-dials. A 30-minute counter sits at 3 o’clock, while the small seconds display appears at 9. Trapezoidal indices, partially skeletonised hands, and generous lume ensure optimal legibility day or night, essential for a watch built for everyday adventures.

Powering the watch is the in-house Calibre 761, an automatic chronograph movement developed, assembled, and finished entirely at the Manufacture. It features a vertical clutch and column wheel for smooth chronograph operation, and runs at a frequency of 28,800 vph (4 Hz). Its twin-barrel system delivers an impressive 65-hour power reserve. The movement is finely decorated with traditional finishes, including Côtes de Genève, blued screws, and a skeletonized rotor bearing the JL logo.

The watch arrives with two interchangeable straps, a textured black rubber option and a blue-grey canvas strap that echoes the tones of the dial. Both are fitted with a quick-change system and folding buckle. This new Polaris Chronograph joins the permanent collection and is priced at USD 14,900, equivalent to AED 56,500.

For more information, visit Jaeger-LeCoultre’s official website.