If we use the word ‘masterpiece’ to single out high-end horological creations, we should find even stronger expression for such a stunning timepiece as new Jaeger-LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Eleven. This great complication watch presents eight separate patents, six of which are completely unique. With a case which is just 7.9 mm thick, this timepiece is the slimmest minute repeater on the market. Besides, JLC’s novelty features a unique, in-house flying tourbillon which is for the very first time paired with a flying balance. The Master Ultra-Thin Minute Repeater Flying Tourbillon or Hybris Mechanica Eleven comes in the limited edition of just 75 pieces.
Jaeger LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Eleven Watch Case
Although the watch looks pretty amazing, it would be a crime not to start from its inner-parts which are impressive both separately and combined in a Caliber 362. This self-winding movement with the thickness of 4.8mm is among the thinnest minute-repeater mechanisms in the world. Built of 471 components, it includes the patented tourbillon, a high-performance new balance-spring, a new minute repeater equipped with a silent-time-lapse reduction system, a peripheral automatic winding system, as well as a retractable single push-button. Revealed at the 6 o’clock dial position, the innovative in-house tourbillon for the first time features a flying balance-wheel which allows a clear view of both balance-wheel and spring. The balance spring is fixed above the balance wheel which, beside its aesthetic purpose, also reduces the overall thickness.
Jaeger LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Eleven Watch Side
Another innovation that contributes to the slim body of the watch is an oscillating peripheral mass with a platinum segment visible through small apertures at the outer rim which are covered by sapphire crystal. It oscillates in both directions, but only clockwise movements wind the mechanism.
JLC Hybris Mechanica Eleven watch is equipped with two patented trebuchet hammers, which for the first time appeared in 2009 (in a Hybris Mechanica à Grande Sonnerie watch) to provide optimal energy transmission to gongs, as well as their cleaner striking on two crystal gongs fixed to the sapphire crystal. Their traditional architecture that pays homage to the brand’s historic timepieces is another impressive thing that the renowned watchmaker had on mind while making this piece of art. The minute repeater strikes hours, quarters and minutes and it is activated by a patented retractable single push button that on demand, discretely brings out the push piece at the 8 o’clock position to activate the minute repeater. After that, it returns to the primary position, keeping the perfect symmetry of the case.
Jaeger LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Eleven Watch
Bridges of the mechanism are crafted in copper-nickel-zinc Maillechort alloy, which is yet another homage to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s history and its pocket watches. The movement is beautifully decorated by
Côtes de Genève and hand-beveling finishing.
Jaeger LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Eleven Watch Case Back
The case of the watch is made of white gold which is nicely hand- polished, as well as its bezel and lugs. Inspired by a “knife-shaped” 1907 pocket watch, it has the diameter of 41 mm. A silver dial is clear and simple, emphasizing the tourbillon and side apertures. It goes perfectly with the case and an elegant black leather strap.
