Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Stellar Odyssey: A Journey in Time and Cosmos

In 2022, Jaeger-LeCoultre embarked on a “Stellar Odyssey”, celebrating the age-old connection between celestial phenomena, the origins of timekeeping, and groundbreaking watchmaking. More than mere aesthetics; this was aimed at paying homage to Vallée de Joux where the company has always had its base and where the infectious night wind has led to generations of watchmakers.

Founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre, Jaeger-LeCoultre has become a renowned watchmaking manufacture. Their expertise in astronomical complications ranges from simple moon phase displays to complex perpetual calendars and sky charts, often combined with other functions to create “Grandes Complications.” These remarkable creations have earned them the nickname “the watchmaker of watchmakers.”

Astronomical pursuits have been a key feature in the Jaeger-LeCoultre collection since it’s earliest days. Their artisans have always gone beyond their boundaries in order to develop more complicated mechanisms that measure celestial wonders with greater precision while they are even able predict them in advance by mastering solar, lunar as well as sidereal time scales. In 2022, this tradition shone more brilliantly than ever through new celestial watches.

2022 saw Jaeger-LeCoultre release stunning and varied timepieces that pay homage to its history while displaying close to two centuries’ worth of accumulated knowledge in fresh ways. The 2022 line-up by Jaeger-LeCoultre encapsulates the company’s rich heritage as well as its inventive spirit. Every piece has a unique creation such as Atmos Hybris Mechanica Calibre 590 reproducing the Earth and Moon’s cycles around the Sun, Master Grande Tradition Calibre 948 revolving around Earth’s rotation, Master Hybris Artistica Calibre 945 depicting constellations in an artistic manner indicating what each model represents.

The worldwide “Stellar Odyssey” exhibition was launched at Watches & Wonders. Rather than just displaying the latest celestial-inspired creations by Jaeger-LeCoultre, it sought to take visitors on an exploratory journey through space by means of compelling multimedia installations. At Atelier d’Antoine, workshops focused on the marvels of astronomical complications and the celestial origins of timekeeping. To accomplish this, La Grande Maison teamed up with mixologist Matthias Giroud to create a selection of top-notch cosmos-themed cocktails featuring flavors from the Vallée de Joux.

Catherine Rénier, Jaeger-LeCoultre CEO pointed out that this was not only about sharing their creations but also sharing the wonders of celestial worlds through art and immersive experiences. The Stellar Odyssey-related workshops at the Atelier d’Antoine were unique in teaching watchmaking within its Stellar Odyssey theme.

The “Stellar Odyssey” is a proof that Jaeger-LeCoultre aims at breaking itself free from traditional watchmaking concepts while acknowledging the origin of time keeping in celestial bodies. Their creations are more than merely timepieces, they are indeed fascinating demonstrations of human intelligence and love for the universe.

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