It all began when Elie LeCoultre, son of Antoine LeCoultre, decided to bring the multiple watchmaking professions under one roof, a truly novel move at a time when Swiss watchmaking was built around small home-based workshops. LeCoultre & Cie thus became the first fullfledged Manufacture in the Vallée de Joux.

It currently houses over 180 skills involved in developing and producing the most prestigious timepieces from start to finish. Driven by a constant quest for excellence, backed by a unique spirit of invention, Jaeger-Lecoultre is thus pursuing the tradition of Grande Complication models produced by the Manufacture through a succession of extraordinary creations and unique inventions.

Left: Clive Owen at Maison d’Antoine - Right: Workbenches in the Maison d’Antoine

The approximately 200m2 area will be devoted to the intensely technical nature of horology. Various Grande Complication watches, including masterpieces of complexity such as the Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon 3 Jubilee, will thus find a perfect setting in which to be exposed to the admiring gaze of the most demanding collectors.

12 workbenches are reserved for watch initiation and training classes given by an expert who is always ready to answer watch lovers’ numerous questions.

Inside the Maison d’Antoine

Above all else, the keynote will be passion – a quality exemplified by the founders whose portraits adorn the entrance to the Maison d’Antoine and who appear to be gazing benevolently down on visitors. A reminder that we are indeed in the home of Antoine LeCoultre himself. Exactly as in one of the region’s typical chalets, the wood comes from the spruce forests of the Vallée de Joux. Using soft, elegant colours, noble and traditional materials and a spacious fireplace, the focus is firmly on creating a warm and serene atmosphere. It is indeed the whole vision of luxury and refinement according to Jaeger-LeCoultre that is eloquently expressed in the Maison d’Antoine.

On the occasion of its inauguration, British actor Clive Owen was one of the first to immerse himself in the unique atmosphere of this peerless watchmaking location. The actor will doubtless return one day to take part in one of the master classes offered by the Manufacture. By installing at the very heart of its Manufacture this Maison d’Antoine, a rare and exclusive place offering a refine and intimate ambience, Jaeger-LeCoultre is writing a new chapter in its history.

Source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

Picture of Mr Owen by Johann Sauty