So here is my Series 1 Jaeger LeCoultre Master Compressor chronograph ref 146.8.25. This watch had been on my hit list for some time before I was able to acquire a good condition variant. It oozes character in its masculinity from the super compressor case. The dial is laid out beautifully making it both functional and legible at the same time.

Notice how symmetrical the layout is, with the date window being at the 6 o’clock position against the other hands and chronograph dials. One of my favourite aspects of this timepiece is how the hour dial on the chronograph turns to indicate the hours, rather than a traditional hand on an axis. Just that little bit of quirkiness to make more conversation from an already, stunningly, eye catching watch.

The rear of the watch has a beautiful rose gold medallion which doesn’t just increase the aesthetics, but signifies the passing of the 1000 hours of JLC testing to make this watch an all purpose diving machine!! The chronograph calibre 725 is super smooth, the buttons having butter like actions, and the super compressor crowns making it even more durable in the water.

Surely I have some reservations? Well… the case dimensions could be a little smaller. I do not like the deployment clasp, in fact as a rule of thumb I hate deployment clasps as they dig into your wrist. I have changed mine to a Master traditional tang and buckle. Another small issue is the 21mm lug width, which makes it less strap friendly with your existing collection. I have given the timepiece a wearability rating of 9, only because I feel this watch can’t be worn on dressier occasions. The case size and look make it a little too bulky to fit under a smart cuff. But this is a sports watch through and through… So do not let that put you off! You don’t buy the Jaeger LeCoultre Master Compressor to wine and dine, you buy it to jump into the sea with style!