Unassuming, unpretentious, yet the unmistakable allure of the simplicity of the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) 2010 launch of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Compressor Navy SEALs automatic diving watch has found its way to many hearts and wrist of watch connoisseurs.
The original Master Compressor was developed in 2002 but in recent years, the watchmaker has taken the initiative to partner elite military units to create a stronger timepiece that had a unique identity. For this variant, JLC has worked with members of the secretive US Navy SEALs team to create a watch that befits all terrains from the sea, air and land and weathers through the toughest conditions that the watch could be possibly exposed to. The end result was that JLC decided to shrink the original 44mm case to 42mm. This may come as a surprise to many, as there is an increasing demand towards larger watches. Yet JLC have stuck true to its roots in creating a true utilitarian timepiece that fits the request of the Navy SEALs.
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The watch is encased within a 42mm brushed steel case that is topped with a matt ceramic dial, and is engineered to be bullet-proof. The Navy SEALs team expressed that they needed a watch that has rotating bezels and did not reflect light as much as the others, a watch that minimizes glare and is highly durable. Hence JLC, created the bezel in a matt finishing with brushed stainless steel on the side and ensured that the bezel and case could be subjected to the harsh environments and tough abuse.
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The simple, unassuming dial is treated in a black galvanic coat that is topped with a matte finishing, making great work at reading time. Legibility is crucial when it comes to the Navy SEALs and the designers at JLC had to work hard to rethink and create a watch that is highly legible under any circumstances from the depths of the oceans or the pitch dark forests. The answer is meticulously crafted in a dial that displays clear typography and numerals with simplistic hours and minute indicators to ensure optimal legibility under all conditions. The indicator hand and hour markers are specially coated with Super-LumiNova phosphorescent pigment that enhances visibility under water or in darkness to give the watch maximum legibility, especially with the demanding operations undertaken by the Navy SEALs.
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The watch features a stainless steel engraved case back that comes with a patented compression-key system, guaranteeing maximum water-resistance and protection from the demanding activities of the Navy SEALs and offers superior protection from sand and dust. Each piece is numbered individually and bears the Trident insignia of the US Navy SEALs. The watch is complemented by a ceramic matte chain strap that wraps firmly across the wrist with a detachable clasp on both sides, a mechanism that secures the strap firmly onto the wrist even under strenuous impacts.
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The Master Compressor Navy SEALs automatic diver features a JLC in-house caliber 899 that completes 28,800 semi-oscillations per hour. The improved version of the original 899/2 movement features an enhanced transmission of energy that helps increase the power reserve to approximately 45 hours. The movement is also engineered to be sturdy and locked to withstand hard knocks and strong impacts.
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The great dial legibility showcases how JLC takes the collaboration and functions of its timepiece seriously when it comes to the Navy SEALs. The fact that the watch is understated yet elegant for any occasion means that this is one watch that can transcend any time and place. Yet another great timepiece from with an amazing pedigree.
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