Review: Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre Quantième Lunaire
It’s a problem as old as the very first watch complications—when a movement is tasked with powering an extra function, how can you make sure that its timekeeping accuracy isn’t impaired in any way? Jaeger-LeCoultre, well-known for embracing horological challenges by developing new and interesting mechanical innovations, puts forward one solution in its Duomètre series of watches.
The calibre 381 that powers the Duomètre Quantième Lunaire makes use of a concept that the brand has dubbed ‘dual-wing’. First developed in 2007, it features two entirely separate mechanisms neatly enclosed within the same case, both with independent power sources and connected by a single regulating component.
One is solely purposed for time measurement, so despite any complications the watch may have, the accuracy of its timekeeping won’t be affected. The second mechanism can then be put solely to work powering the functions—and there are plenty on offer with this particular piece. In fantastic display of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s watchmaking prowess, the watch features a jumping seconds hand, a date indicator and a beautifully decorated moonphase display that includes both the northern and southern hemispheres.
A single crown is used to wind both mechanisms, simply by turning it in opposing directions. Jaeger-LeCoultre’s ‘zero/reset’ system ensures accuracy to the nearest 1/6th second when setting the watch. The seconds hand is linked to the time-setting mechanism—when the crown is pulled out, the hand resets to zero, starting only when the crown has been pushed back in again.
Besides the impressive micromechanics, and like other pieces from the Duomètre collection, the Quantième Lunaire is simply a beautiful watch to look at. Despite the complex nature of its movement, the watch is a comfortable size; the case, in warm rose gold, comes in at 42mm, with a (relatively, considering what’s going on inside) slim thickness of 13.5mm. Elegant feuille hands indicate the time, and the silvered dial has a textured look to it, and features three prominent subdials.
Through the skeletonised apertures located at the bottom half of the dial, you can see two power reserve indicators that let you know the remaining power in each of the two barrels—if you’re going to develop impressive new feats in horology, you may as well show them off, after all.
Watch Spec | Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre Quantième Lunaire
Case | 18k rose gold Dimensions | 38mm Crystal | Synthetic sapphire Water Resistance | 50m Movement | Calibre 381, manual Frequency | 21,600vph Power Reserve | 50 hours Strap | Brown leather Functions: Time, date, jumping seconds, moonphase, power reserve | Shop Now
