What We Know
If the current generation of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Polaris didn’t quite do it for you, namely in the 42mm case sizes across the board in the Polaris lineup, this new 40mm version of the Polaris Date might just be a more compelling option.
The new 40mm steel case is not only smaller in diameter, but actually thinner too, measuring 12.9mm compared to 13.92mm with the 42mm casing. No, it doesn’t make for a slim time-and-date watch, but it’s still an improvement for the sporty case. The new diameter, paired with an already compact lug profile, means that this version of the Polaris should be quite wearable for an even smaller subset of wrists now.
Dial-wise, this 40mm Polaris Date uses the same lacquered fumé blue dial as the 42mm version, with a dramatically gradient sunray-brushed center section surrounded by a snailed minutes track and an outer grained section for the applied markers and date window. The inner bezel, complete with orange accents, is controlled through the second crown at 4 o’clock and can be used to track elapsed time. But while the dial doesn’t offer anything new in the way of color, there are actually two small details modified from the 42mm version that I think are major improvements.
First is the positioning of the Jaeger-LeCoultre logo, now placed in the center brushed section rather than crammed right underneath the “12” markers in the 42mm version. And thankfully, “Automatique” is now gone from the dial, leaving only “Swiss Made” at the bottom edge of the dial. These are major improvements to the overall balance of the dial, and I actually hope we might see some of these updates in the larger sizes down the line.
Inside the 40mm Polaris Date is the same in-house Caliber 899, a modern self-winding time and date movement beating away at 28,800 VpH with a power reserve of 70 hours. Disappointingly, there is no option for a rubber strap in the smaller case size this time, and the 40mm Polaris Date comes on a canvas strap. It’s priced at $10,400.
What We Think
The latest generation of the Polaris had always intrigued me, especially the Polaris Geographic and its unique dial layout. But while the case wasn’t egregious on my wrist, even at 42mm, the lack of an outer bezel definitely exaggerated the size of the dial and thus the overall look. While I admittedly have not been able to try on the new 40mm Polaris Date yet, I would trust that even a little bit shaved off in both dimensions would lead to a much more wearable case, and I only hope that we might see some of the complications receive the same treatment in due time.
The Basics
Brand: Jaeger-LeCoultre
Model: Polaris Date 40mm
Reference Number: Q9128981
Diameter: 40mm
Thickness: 12.9mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Dial Color: Dark blue gradient lacquer
Indexes: Applied
Lume: Yes
Water Resistance: 20 bar
Strap/Bracelet: Blue canvas with double-folding buckle
The Movement
Caliber: JLC Caliber 899
Functions: Hours, minutes, second, date
Thickness: 4.64mm
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 VpH
Jewels: 32
Chronometer Certified: No
Pricing & Availability
Price: $10,400
Availability: Now
Limited Edition: No
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