Some time back, I sold what was a lovely watch in my JLC Reserve de Marche. I must admit that I missed it a fair bit – in fact, I still do – and although I knew it would be replaced at some point the newer version started to appeal more and more. That was the Master Ultra Thin model in 39mm, and vying with it was the MUT Moon; both watches were absolute stunners but when I tried them on in Wempe the other week it was the Moon that really sang to me. Such a classic and simple dial, and I’m such a sucker for a moonphase so (for me, at least) it was absolutely perfect.

I tried to source one new at a good price, but didn’t have much luck. Someone pointed me towards a mint used example at The Watch Club, but they were asking too close to new price for it to be an easy decision, and in the end the solution arrived as a consequence of my posting a Want To Buy ad on TZ-UK. I met a member from there for a coffee yesterday, and having had a nice chat for an hour or so I wandered back to the office holding a large box and with the watch on my wrist. It certainly hasn’t disappointed either.

The case measures 39×9.9mm, and inside is the Jaeger LeCoultre Ultra Slim Self-Winding Caliber 925 – measuring only 4.9mm thick, its oscillating rotor finished with a 22 carat gold weight not unlike those found in GO calibers, and with the usual exemplary standard of decoration. This fantastic movement beats at 28,800 vph, is composed of 246 parts, contains 30 Jewels & has an approximate power reserve of 43 hours… considering it also provides both date and moonphase complications it really is a marvel.

The silvered dial perfectly sets off the steel indices and hands, the latter of which have both brushed and polished facets; the second hand is blued, and all three hands are wonderfully elegant in both shape and dimensions. At six is the sub-dial containing both the moonphase and date indicators and these are operated not by the crown, but by recessed pushers on either side of the case.

All in all, I think this an absolutely stunning watch, and I’m thrilled to own it. I’m a big fan of JLC in any event, but the current range of Ultra Thins take a lot of beating in my opinion.