This Jaeger travel clock is a charming relic of the early days of jet-set international travel. At a time when travel was equal parts glamour and adversity, this elegant travel clock would have been a valued companion. 

Used as a desk or bedside clock by both ladies and gentlemen, it is believed it was manufactured by Jaeger in the 1930s, prior to merging with LeCoultre in 1937 (hence the Jaeger Fabriqué en Suisse signature). One of the collectable’s key features is its capacity to open and close, allowing the clock to be protected during transport or stand up straight when rested on a flat surface.

An improvement from previous executions from the 1920s which only featured a 2-day power reserve, this example features an 8-day power reserve, as indicated by the 8 Jours signature at 6 o’clock. The calibre is manually-wound, operated through a crown at 6 o’clock, which is easily accessible. One would like to imagine that this was intentionally conceived by Jaeger in order to facilitate changing the time, for example when crossing between timezones. 

The dial is well-preserved, with the cathedral hands and arabic numerals having developed a warm patina, which beautifully complements the black dial. The brown calf outer-case is in excellent condition and brings out the brown patina of the dial, enhancing the overall presence of the clock.