CIRCA: 1958
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
CASE DIAMETER: 35 mm.
DIAL: White
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Time only
BUCKLE: Stainless steel unsigned buckle
BOX: No
PAPERS: No
REMARK: Approx. 1'038 pieces made

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Lot Essay

The Geophysic Chronometer is amongst the most important watches in the history of Jaeger-LeCoultre, representing the manufacturer's values of precision, robustness and aesthetic purity. Made at a time of fundamental scientific and political developments, it was directly involved in this historical context.

To match the model that would resist any type of challenge, in particular water-resistance, anti-magnetism, adjustment, etc., the name Geophysic Chronometer was suggested, also as it perfectly met the criteria and values of the International Geophysical Year (IGY). This particularly significant scientific event was organized on the initiative of the United States and took place at the high point of solar activity, from 1 July 1957 to 31 December 1958. It was also the first year of the Space Age, with the launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, on 4 October 1957.

The models were fitted with Jaeger-LeCoultre's first chronometer movement, the calibre P478/BWSBR developed in 1957, new water-resistant cases with soft iron domes to protect the movement from magnetic field influence up to 600 gauss, thus meeting the needs of research scientists working on polar bases, in laboratories or inside submarines. The origin of this watchmaking project was the call for "resistance to any type of challenge". Consequently, the cases were able to withstand magnetic fields, given that magnetism was also one of the scientists' main areas of study. Precision, guaranteed in mechanical watchmaking by the term 'chronometer', is another crucial necessity as every science requires exact measurements.

The precision, robustness and reliability of the Geophysic Chronometer made it a symbol of excellence and the logical choice when Jaeger-LeCoultre decided to revive the Geophysic tradition in 2009.

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Condition report

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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Case: Scratches and dents all over the case. Shock on the crown. Back case show scratches dents and sign of wear and does not have an inscription. Has been previously polished.
Dial: Some scratches at the middle of the dial. Light spots of oxidation. Hand are oxidated and they no longer have any luminescent material. Indexes are slightly oxidated.
Overall condition: Good.

The condition of lots sold in our auctions can vary widely due to factors such as age, previous damage, restoration, repair and wear and tear. Their nature means that they will rarely be in perfect condition. Lots are sold "as is," in the condition they are in at the time of the sale, without any representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to condition by Christie's or by the seller.
Any reference to condition in a catalogue entry or in a condition report will not amount to a full description of condition, and images may not show a lot clearly. Colours and shades may look different in print or on screen to how they look on physical inspection. Condition reports may be available to help you evaluate the condition of a lot. Condition reports are provided free of charge as a convenience to our buyers and are for guidance only. They offer our opinion but they may not refer to all faults, inherent defects, restoration, alteration or adaptation because our staff are not professional restorers or conservators. For that reason they are not an alternative to examining a lot in person or taking your own professional advice. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have requested, received and considered any condition report.

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