103 - Jaeger-LeCoultre - Atmos Royale Japonaise Wajima

Jaeger-LeCoultre - Atmos Royale Japonaise Wajima A precious and extremely rare Atmos table clock featuring Wajima lacquerwork and mother-of-pearl inlays, manufactured for the Chinese or Japanese market. The clock has just been serviced and is in exceptionally good condition Ref. 220.009.0, Cal. 540, Dimensions 280 x 225 x 170 mm, circa 1990, Origin: Switzerland Case: Gilded brass, mother-of-pearl, Wajima lacquerwork, acrylic glass. Dial: Black, mother-of-pearl, Wajima lacquerwork. Movement: Gilded, driven by changing air pressure, torsion pendulum. First designed in 1928 by Jean-Léon Reutter, the Atmos clock operates without an external power source. A capsule filled with ethylene chloride is housed inside the clock, which then expands or contracts depending on the temperature. This expansion and contraction provides energy to the mainspring, which in turn powers the clock. Compared to other timepieces, the “daily care” required for an Atmos clock is remarkably simple. Simply place it horizontally, and the clock will continue to operate without needing to be wound. This particular Atmos clock features the renowned Japanese craft of Wajima lacquerwork and mother-of-pearl inlays. Wajima lacquerware is a technique with over 600 years of history, known for its rich colors and durability. The production process involves 70 to 100 meticulous steps, all done by hand. It takes two years to prepare the base, followed by six months of applying over 100 layers of lacquer. In addition to the Wajima lacquerware, the clock also features decorative elements such as “Chinkin” (gold inlay), “Makie” (decoration with gold, silver, or colored powder), and “Rögin” (mother-of-pearl inlay). These crafts demand exceptional skill from the artisans, and in ancient times, these objects were treasured and collected by the imperial court and the nobility. This clock features paintings on all four sides, depicting a serene scene of a bright moon, mountains, pine trees, flying birds, children, musicians, and people going about their daily lives. Both the women and men wear traditional attire rendered in mother-of-pearl—a picturesque world that evokes the tranquil atmosphere of “hidden in the clouds, unknown to the world.” The artisans have magnificently captured this enchanting landscape using various traditional techniques, bringing it to life with incredible detail. It is truly a testament to the artist’s unwavering dedication and craftsmanship. Case: very good. Dial: like new. Movement: like new, in working condition.