Jaeger-LeCoultre Lot n° 461

An extremely rare, very fine, antimagnetic vintage chronometer wristwatch with indirect centre seconds and hack feature, Jaeger-LeCoultre box and Jaeger-LeCoultre extract from the archives. From 1958 to 1959, only about 1000 watches of this reference were produced ! Movm. No. 1331081, Ref. E168, Cal. P478/BWSbr, Case No. 748615, Dimensions 35 mm, circa 1958, Origin Swiss Case: steel, screw back, anti-magnetic protection cap. Dial: silvered. Movm.: Manual. The Geophysic Chronometer is one of the most important and remarkable timepieces of the Jaeger-LeCoultre brand. This wrist chronometer was created at a time of ground-breaking scientific and political developments and was designed to withstand any type of challenge – its features included antimagnetic properties, watertightness and temperature stability. The name "Geophysic Chronometer" was chosen to pay homage to the International Geophysical Year (IGY), which took place from July 1st, 1957 till December 31st, 1958. The International Geophysical Year was dedicated to worldwide research in all geophysical fields such as solar research, seismology, glaciology, geomagnetism, meteorology, oceanography, ionosphere and cosmic radiation. The project involved 67 nations and constituted a major step forward in the cooperation of international scientists in the Cold War era. To meet the specifications of the participating researchers, Jaeger-LeCoultre developed their first chronometer movement P478/BWSbr with temperature-resistant Glucydur balance and a novel adjustment system for smooth regulation. The movement was fitted in a waterproof case and had an antimagnetic soft-iron dome, which meant it was protected from magnetic interference up to a strength of 600 Gauss. Easy and accurate reading of the time was ensured by a straightforward and well balanced dial design with a central second hand which stopped when the crown was pulled, so that the time could be set as precisely as possible. Case: very good, slightly worn. Dial: very good. Movm.: very good, capable of running, cleaning recommended.