109th Auction

2023/11/18

Lot 117

Jaeger-LeCoultre
Duoplan

A lady's exquisite vintage miniature bracelet watch in 18 K gold fitted with the world's smallest mechanical movement

Sold

estimated
5.50010.000 €
Price realized
8.200 €
specific features
Case
18 K gold and blue enamel, screwed on back, back winder, integrated 18 K gold bracelet in the shape of a flexible snake chain with a rectangular cross-section and 14 K pink gold folding clasp with case maker's punch mark and London import hallmark, bracelet length 135 mm, total length 155 mm.
Dial
Silvered.
Movement
Manual.
Cal.101
Diam.6 x 15 mm
Circa1965
Ctry.Switzerland
Wt.27 g


When the Duoplan calibre was introduced in the 1920s, it was one of the smallest (yet accurate) movements. This was achieved with a two-level design that allowed enough room for a sufficiently large balance - always a prerequisite for accuracy in pocket watches and wristwatches. The Jaeger Duoplan for ladies was available in a number of different models and eventually became a very successful, classic timepiece. The Duoplan calibre 101 is 14 mm long, 4.8 mm wide and 3.4 mm high - it is still the smallest mechanical movement ever. Its original 74 parts only weighed a total of one gram. This prodigious feat of miniaturisation has equipped the most exclusive watches, starting with the one worn by Queen Elizabeth II of England on her Coronation Day in 1953.