The history of this Jaeger-LeCoultre Étrier
The House of Jaeger-LeCoultre has always been able to combine technical rigour and aesthetic audacity. Designed in the early 1930s to meet the requirements of Hermès leather goods, the Étrier watch asserts an innovative vision of shaped watchmaking. Its unique architecture was directly inspired by the world of equestrianism, using the geometry of a traditional stirrup. This approach allowed the leather straps to express themselves fully through the wide metal handles. A fascinating technical anecdote lies in the atypical positioning of its winding crown at 6 o'clock. This ingenious choice met the needs of riders and racing drivers of the time, who wanted to wear a timepiece without the crown injuring the back of the hand when bending the wrist. This Jaeger-LeCoultre Étrier reference 1671 crystallises this heritage in a luxurious execution from the late 1970s.
Case, calibre and bracelet of this Étrier
The presence on the wrist of this piece rests on a rectangular case in fully polished 18-carat yellow gold. Its dimensions of 23 mm in width extend to 35 mm in length including its spectacular arched lugs. A domed plexiglass glass overhangs a delicately vertically brushed champagne-coloured dial. Raised baton hour-markers adorned with a fine black lacquered line frame central hands with the same treatment to offer a strong visual contrast without any luminescence. The beating movement at the heart of this model is the hand-wound Calibre 840. This mechanism incorporates 17 jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, delivering a power reserve of 40 hours. The watch is accompanied by a beige leather strap specifically fixed through the buckles of the case and closed by a gold pin buckle.
Why this Jaeger-LeCoultre watch
Acquiring such a vintage model represents a rare opportunity for lovers of shaped pieces. The singular silhouette of this piece offers a wearability of rare elegance. The solid yellow gold configuration underlines the nobility of the original design. Finding a timepiece from this period that retains its architectural integrity and documentation of its birth is a real asset. The absence of superfluous complications refocuses attention on pure aesthetics and confirms its vocation as a dress watch.
Delivered contents and condition
This historic piece sold in 1979 is accompanied by its original rectangular case and handwritten guarantee certificate. Keeping these original documents for over 45 years gives this set an undeniable collector's value. Importantly for the longevity of the mechanism, an overhaul of the movement was carried out in April 2025, guaranteeing its accuracy despite the absence of an invoice for this work. The watch shows visible signs of wear and tear, and its aesthetic remains totally in keeping with the life of the piece, with marks on the polished gold. The period leather strap bears witness to its history. Careful polishing of the yellow gold can be carried out on request to revive the brilliance of the precious metal.
Guarantee and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. As the leading second-hand retailer in Switzerland and with the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for on-site fitting and collection or fully secure international shipping. This piece is covered by a 12-month warranty.
* Used condition - Visible signs of wear. Aesthetics in keeping with the experience and age of the piece. Polishing available on request.
