Jaeger-Le-Coultre Futurematic

Introduced in the early 1950s, the Jaeger-Le-Coultre Futurematic caused quite a stir. Not having a crown at the 3 o’clock position was uncommon, but not having any winding crown was a bit of a shocker for watch enthusiasts.

Caseback with setting wheel

Dubbed the world’s first ‘100% automatic watch,’ the Futurematic has a wheel at the caseback to set the time. Instead of winding the watch, it requires a few shakes to put it in motion.

Various versions of the Futurematic exist, with either white or black dials. In general, the following specs apply to most models:

• 35mm 10k gold filed steel case

• Setting wheel at caseback

• 60-second subdial

• Power Reserve indicator

• Plexiglas crystal

• Calibre 497 (1951), 827 (1953), 817 (1956) and 837 (1958) automatic movement

• 40hr power reserve

• Leather strap

No Jaeger?

Having a cult following in the USA, Futurematics in that market dropped the Jaeger on the dial and were branded as just Le-Coultre. This was done for cost-saving reasons. Instead of shipping entire watches to the US, Jaeger-Le-Coultre only shipped movements and dials while manufacturing the cases locally. To distinguish those models, they received dials that were stamped with Le-Coultre.

Futurematic, with Le-Coultre stamped dial for the US market

Innovative Vintage

Combining unique inventions and classic 50s design, the Jaeger-Le-Coultre Futurematic is an interesting proposition for lovers of vintage timepieces.