Exceptional Jaeger-LeCoultre Chronometer Geomatic E399 in Steel, circa 1962 – Unpolished

In 1962, Jaeger-LeCoultre launched the Chronomètre Geomatic, a watch "for the man of action", featuring remarkable innovations, combining an automatic movement with date window (a first!), chronometer certification, antimagnetic protection and water resistance.
Produced in just 2,000 steel examples until 1970, this E399 reference represents one of the most sought-after models in vintage JLC production.
The example on offer is striking for its exceptional condition. The 36 mm "tonneau" case, most likely never polished since its birth over 60 years ago, retains its sharp edges and original surfaces. The superb sunray silver dial, often pitted or stained on this model, is presented here in remarkable condition with applied faceted hour markers and perfectly round tritium dots developing a warm and uniform patina. Its K881G caliber, recently serviced by a watchmaker specializing in vintage calibers, operates according to the strictest tolerances.
A spiritual ancestor of the Master collection, this Geomatic, in our eyes the finest example of the reference to appear on the market for several years, represents a rare opportunity for the discerning collector.

In 1962, four years after the introduction of the legendary 1958 Geophysic, Jaeger-LeCoultre launched the Geomatic Chronometer. This new creation drew on the experience gained with its predecessor while developing its own identity. Marketed as a watch "for the man of action" according to the advertisements of the time, the Geomatic was then positioned almost as a sports watch, equipped with an automatic movement with a date window at 3 o'clock (a first!), anti-magnetic protection, shock resistance, and being certified as an official chronometer and water-resistant.

Produced until 1970 in very limited quantities – only 2,000 pieces in steel – the E399 reference represents today one of the most sought-after models of vintage JLC production. Its automatic K881G caliber, chronometer-certified, beats at 19,800 vibrations per hour and incorporates a Gyromax escapement wheel as well as a Nivarox balance spring for meticulous regulation and great precision.

The example we are pleased to offer is striking for its exceptional condition. The steel "tonneau" case, measuring 36 mm in diameter, has most likely never been polished. It retains clear demarcations between the matte brushed/satin and shiny/mirror-polished surfaces, and extremely sharp edges. The sunburst/radiant silver dial is in keeping with this: Geomatic dials are often pitted, stained, and partially discolored. This is not the case here. Here in a silver sunray version with applied faceted indexes – the most interesting and characteristic of the model – the dial is superb. The dots of luminescent material (tritium base) at the tips of the indexes are all present, very round, and have developed a warm and uniform patina. The screw-down caseback bears the famous engraved "Chronomètre Geomatic" gold medallion, again in impeccable condition. The self-winding mechanical movement has been completely overhauled by a watchmaker specializing in vintage Jaeger calibers and operates to the strictest tolerances.

The Geomatic heralds the DNA of the future Master collection, of which it is the spiritual ancestor. Savvy Jaeger-LeCoultre collectors will be in no doubt: this is a rare opportunity to acquire a Geomatic ref. E399 in superb overall condition.

This Jaeger-LeCoultre Geomatic ref. E399 is preserved in superb overall condition.
The 36mm diameter steel "tonneau" case has almost certainly never been polished. It retains clear demarcations between the brushed/satin-finished and glossy/mirror-polished matte surfaces, and extremely sharp edges.
The silver sunburst/radiant dial is in excellent condition, with no stains, discoloration, or significant scratches or pitting. The dots of luminescent material (tritium-based) at the tips of the indexes have developed a warm, even patina.
The screw-down case back bears the famous engraved “Chronomètre Geomatic” gold medallion, again in immaculate condition.
The self-winding mechanical movement has been completely overhauled by a watchmaker specializing in vintage Jaeger calibers and operates to the strictest tolerances.
This Geomatic is, in our opinion, the most beautiful example of the reference to appear on the market for several years.

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