The history of this Jaeger-LeCoultre Automatic
In the late 1970s, the watchmaking industry was in the throes of the quartz crisis. Faced with the advent of electronic components, the Jaeger-LeCoultre manufacture chose to uphold its mechanical tradition through miniaturisation. The brand focused its efforts on developing ultra-thin automatic calibres to prove that a traditional movement could offer remarkable slimness on the wrist. This Jaeger-LeCoultre, reference 5001 21, exemplifies this approach. Renowned for its expertise in movement design, the manufacture presents a classic interpretation of the evening watch. The model combines the technical sophistication of a high-precision calibre with the preciousness of gold and diamonds. Designed for a clientele seeking discretion, it meets the need to adorn the wrist with a understated yet precious timepiece.
Case, calibre and strap of this Automatic
The 33 mm case is crafted from 18-carat yellow gold. Its round, ultra-thin profile is extended by slender lugs. The fixed bezel is set with brilliant-cut diamonds, providing a steady sparkle without disrupting the visual balance. Beneath the flat crystal lies a champagne-coloured sunburst dial, creating a tone-on-tone interplay of light with the metal of the case. The hours are indicated by applied baton hour-markers, over which glazed hands in polished yellow gold sweep. The absence of luminescent material preserves the clean lines of the design. A date window displays the date at 3 o’clock. This timepiece is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement from the Jaeger-LeCoultre manufacture. This mechanism guarantees a power reserve of 40 hours. The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap featuring a scale pattern, fastened with a gold pin buckle.
Why this Jaeger-LeCoultre watch
This piece catches the eye with its balance between traditional watchmaking and jewellery. Finding a vintage watch from this period that combines an ultra-thin automatic movement with diamond setting is a rare opportunity. Its 33 mm diameter ensures a discreet presence on the wrist. The contrast between the monochrome champagne-coloured dial and the bezel lends this watch a timeless aesthetic. It represents an opportunity to acquire a piece of the Swiss manufacture’s history in a precious configuration that is rarely seen on the second-hand market.
Contents and condition
This watch is supplied with its original Jaeger-LeCoultre presentation box. The yellow gold case shows micro-scratches and signs of wear, reflecting its use. As precious metal is soft, these slight signs of wear are normal for a timepiece of this era. The dial and hands remain in excellent condition. The current leather strap shows signs of significant wear and will need replacing for optimal comfort. The case can be polished on request to restore the yellow gold to its original condition.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this timepiece. It comes with a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand watch retailer, backed by the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for a fitting and in-store collection, or fully secure international delivery.
* Good condition – Watch has been previously worn. Some signs of wear (micro-scratches, wear marks, etc.). Fully functional and tested by our partner watchmakers.
