Le Coultre - 938 Driverswatch - Women - 1930

This horizontal Jaeger-LeCoultre driver’s watch (Driverswatch) is an exceptionally rare example of watchmaking from the 1930s. The watch dates from around 1932 and represents a special design for drivers. It is meant to be worn on the side of the wrist so that the time could be read while both hands remained on the wheel. Originally intended as a driver’s watch, the compact dimensions are a direct consequence of this highly functional purpose. The watch measures 19 x 24 mm.

The 14-karat yellow gold case is made by Edmund Jaeger, as confirmed by the case design; it is unmistakably French, with elegant lug horns and beautifully preserved surfaces that are in exceptional condition. Such extravagantly engineered gold cases are nowadays rarely encountered, certainly not in this condition.

Equally remarkable is the rare original black dial, which, with the gold hands, creates a striking contrast and depth. Horizontal Jaeger watches from this era are, in any case, very scarce. Finding a specimen with a black dial in original condition, complemented by a matching, high-quality French gold case, makes this piece one of the most desirable variants there are.

Imagine this watch worn on the wrist in 1932, behind the wheel of a Bugatti Type 49 Roadster. This was precisely the context for which these watches were made. A fusion of speed, elegance, and exclusivity. Although these Jaeger-LeCoultre watches were very exclusive items, the original buyers were primarily wealthy industrialists or established businesspeople.

Highlights

- Rare original black dial
- Horizontally oriented driver’s watch
- Original, used overall condition, movement runs very cleanly.

Specifications
Brand: Jaeger-LeCoultre
Model: Horizontal driver’s watch
Case material: 14k yellow gold, Edmund Jaeger case
Dial: Original black dial
Hands: Gold
Movement: Jaeger‑LeCoultre caliber 938, manual winding with original crown
Case width: 19 x 24 mm

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