The story of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris begins in 1968 with the introduction of the Memovox Polaris — a groundbreaking diver’s alarm watch that blended rugged tool-watch functionality with the refinement of fine Swiss watchmaking. With its compressor case and mechanical alarm mechanism, it quickly became a symbol of the era’s adventurous spirit. Fast forward to today, and the Polaris remains a cornerstone of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s sports watch offering. The latest addition, the Polaris Chronograph Ocean Grey (ref. Q9028651), builds on this rich legacy with a modern interpretation that balances bold aesthetics, high functionality, and the maison’s renowned horological expertise. /table of content /h3
The Polaris Chronograph Ocean Grey is housed in a 42mm stainless steel case, offering a contemporary size that feels confident. The short, faceted lugs slope downward for comfort, and Jaeger-LeCoultre's sharp case finishing reveals a mix of brushed surfaces and polished accents. At 13.4mm thick, it wears with authority while remaining versatile for everyday use. A box-shaped sapphire crystal sits above the dial, enhancing both legibility and vintage charm. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters, making this a chronograph you can actually take into the water, a nod to the original Polaris’ diving heritage.
The standout feature of this new model is, without doubt, its Ocean Grey dial. Featuring a double-gradient finish, the dial transitions from light to dark tones across its surface, echoing the ever-changing colors of the sea. The inner sector radiates with a sunray brushing, while the outer ring carries a fine grained texture for depth and contrast. Layers of lacquer—35 in total—add richness and luminosity, giving the dial a sense of motion as it catches the light.
The standout feature of this new model is, without doubt, its Ocean Grey dial. Featuring a double-gradient finish, the dial transitions from light to dark tones across its surface, echoing the ever-changing colors of the sea. The inner sector radiates with a sunray brushing, while the outer ring carries a fine grained texture for depth and contrast. Layers of lacquer—35 in total—add richness and luminosity, giving the dial a sense of motion as it catches the light.
Powering the Polaris Chronograph Ocean Grey is Jaeger-LeCoultre’s in-house Calibre 761, a fully integrated automatic chronograph movement. It features a column-wheel mechanism with a vertical clutch, ensuring smooth operation and precise actuation of the chronograph. Beating at 4Hz, it delivers accuracy and reliability, while twin barrels provide an impressive 65-hour power reserve.
True to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s reputation for watchmaking excellence, the movement is decorated with fine finishing, including Côtes de Genève and blued screws. A skeletonized rotor bearing the JL logo completes the view through the sapphire caseback. Each movement undergoes Jaeger-LeCoultre’s rigorous 1000 Hours Control testing, a comprehensive six-week certification process that exceeds traditional chronometer standards, guaranteeing durability and precision in real-world conditions.
In keeping with the brand’s emphasis on versatility, the Polaris Chronograph Ocean Grey is supplied with two quick-change straps. The first is a textured black rubber strap with a Clous de Paris pattern, engineered for comfort and durability. The second is a powder-blue canvas strap, adding a more casual, sporty look. Both attach seamlessly to the 21mm lugs and are secured with a folding clasp featuring Jaeger-LeCoultre’s easy-change system, allowing wearers to switch straps without tools.
The Polaris Chronograph Ocean Grey embodies the spirit of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s 1968 classic while offering everything expected of a modern luxury sports watch. It is bold yet refined, highly functional yet elegant, and rooted in heritage while looking forward with contemporary design. At $15,100 USD, it represents both a serious professional instrument and a statement piece for collectors who value Jaeger-LeCoultre’s legacy of innovation and craftsmanship.
With its Ocean Grey gradient dial, integrated chronograph calibre, and versatile strap system, this latest addition reinforces the Polaris collection’s role as Jaeger-LeCoultre’s ultimate expression of a modern sports chronograph — a watch equally at home in the water, on the wrist, or in a collection of fine timepieces.