Jaeger-LeCoultre Introduces a More Compact Polaris Date

Since its debut in 2018, the modern Polaris collection has embodied Jaeger-LeCoultre’s interpretation of today's luxury sports watch, blending practical functionality with the refined aesthetics for which the manufacture is known. Now, the Maison revisits one of the collection’s cornerstone models with a new, more compact Polaris Date. Housed in a 40mm steel case, the latest version preserves the design codes and adventurous spirit of its predecessors while offering proportions better suited to a wider range of wrists.

Inspired by History

The origins of the Polaris collection can be traced back to the Memovox Polaris of 1968, a watch that became a landmark in diving-watch design thanks to its oversized case, robust construction, and innovative alarm function. When Jaeger-LeCoultre revived the Polaris name five decades later, it transformed the historic concept into a contemporary collection that combines sporty functionality with understated elegance. 

As collectors increasingly gravitate toward smaller and more versatile watches, Jaeger-LeCoultre has reimagined the freshly launched Polaris Date with a new 40mm steel case. In addition to the reduced diameter, the case has been slimmed to 12.9mm, resulting in proportions that enhance comfort and everyday wearability without sacrificing the bold presence that characterizes the Polaris collection. The result is a sports watch that feels contemporary not only in design but also in its dimensions, making it suitable for a broader range of wrists and lifestyles. Alternating brushed and polished surfaces, a glass-box sapphire crystal and narrow bezel remain key elements of the design.

A Dial Defined by Depth

The dial retains the visual signatures that have become synonymous with the Polaris collection. Executed in a rich dark-blue gradient, it features a distinctive architecture built around concentric circles, bold Arabic numerals, elongated trapezoidal indexes, and skeletonized hands. All indications are coated with Superluminova to ensure excellent legibility in low-light conditions. Particularly impressive is the dial’s lacquer finish. After the grained and sunray-brushed surfaces are prepared, artisans apply seven layers of colored lacquer followed by 35 layers of translucent lacquer. The dial is then meticulously hand-polished to create the collection’s characteristic double-gradient effect and remarkable sense of depth.

A defining feature of the Polaris Date is its internal rotating bezel, adjusted via the second crown positioned at 2 o’clock. Inspired by the collection’s diving-watch heritage, the bezel allows the wearer to track elapsed time while preserving the clean lines of the case design. The watch is water-resistant to 200 meters and comes fitted with a blue canvas strap secured by a double-folding clasp, reinforcing its sporty character while ensuring everyday comfort.

Manufacture Caliber 899

Visible through the sapphire-crystal case back is Jaeger-LeCoultre’s automatic Caliber 899. Developed, manufactured, and assembled entirely in-house, the movement combines reliability with the refined finishing quality that is de rigueur for the time-honored Swiss manufactory.  Operating at a frequency of 4 Hz, the 899 delivers a practical 70-hour power reserve. The watch is equipped with a blue canvas strap with double-folding clasp and priced at $10,400.

To learn more, visit Jaeger-LeCoultre, here.