99th Auction
2019/5/11
Lot 45
Jaeger, Fabr. Suisse, 299 mm, 10 kg, circa 1938
A large demonstration model "Duoplan" with original presentation box
Case: brass, gilt. Movm.: steel, screw compensation balance.
When the Duoplan calibre was introduced in the 1920s, it was one of the smallest (yet accurate) movements. This was achieved with a two-level design that allowed enough room for a sufficiently large balance - always a prerequisite for accuracy in pocket watches and wristwatches. The Jaeger Duoplan for ladies was available in a number of different models and eventually became a very successful, classic timepiece. The Duoplan calibre 101 is 14 mm long, 4.8 mm wide and 3.4 mm high - it is still the smallest mechanical movement ever. Its original 74 parts only weighed a total of one gram. This demonstration model of the tiny engineering marvel is no featherweight, however… It weighs 10,000 times as much and is 30 cm high - certainly an eye-catcher in any office or shop window! The backwinder is protected by a heavy glass panel and supported on a solid foot. It comes in a tailor-made, velvet-lined leather case.
To the best of our knowledge, these extra-large demonstration models were only ever sold by special permission of the Jaeger-LeCoultre management. The quality of the finish and the skilled, precise execution of these showpieces are unmatched.
A large demonstration model "Duoplan" with original presentation box
Case: brass, gilt. Movm.: steel, screw compensation balance.
When the Duoplan calibre was introduced in the 1920s, it was one of the smallest (yet accurate) movements. This was achieved with a two-level design that allowed enough room for a sufficiently large balance - always a prerequisite for accuracy in pocket watches and wristwatches. The Jaeger Duoplan for ladies was available in a number of different models and eventually became a very successful, classic timepiece. The Duoplan calibre 101 is 14 mm long, 4.8 mm wide and 3.4 mm high - it is still the smallest mechanical movement ever. Its original 74 parts only weighed a total of one gram. This demonstration model of the tiny engineering marvel is no featherweight, however… It weighs 10,000 times as much and is 30 cm high - certainly an eye-catcher in any office or shop window! The backwinder is protected by a heavy glass panel and supported on a solid foot. It comes in a tailor-made, velvet-lined leather case.
To the best of our knowledge, these extra-large demonstration models were only ever sold by special permission of the Jaeger-LeCoultre management. The quality of the finish and the skilled, precise execution of these showpieces are unmatched.
Sold
estimated
25.000—35.000 €
Price realized
33.800 €