Jaeger-LeCoultre – Atmos clock with Roman numerals

Dimensions: H x W x D: 22 x 18 x 13.5 cm

Description:
Atmos V Calibre 526 in a gold-plated brass case.
White ring dial with Roman numerals and Breguet hands.
Serial number: 513347
Reference number: 5833
Year of manufacture: 1979

Interesting facts:
When one thinks of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos clock, most people’s minds immediately turn to the classic Atmos V with the Calibre 526, a white dial and Arabic numerals. In fact, however, this model was available in numerous variations. Alongside nickel-plated cases and solid dials, there were versions with dials in black, lapis lazuli blue or – as with the watch offered here – with a white dial ring and Roman numerals.
With its wide range of models in the 1970s, Jaeger-LeCoultre succeeded in making the Atmos clock a coveted collector’s item. At the same time, intensive advertising campaigns, particularly in the USA, led to a significant rise in sales figures. As a result, the Atmos V became much more widespread worldwide than its predecessor models and was sold in significantly higher numbers.

The clock offered here is in a lovely, well-maintained condition and has been carefully cleaned by us.

How does an Atmos clock work?
The Atmos clock is one of the most extraordinary mechanical watches in existence. It requires neither batteries nor regular manual winding. Instead, it derives its driving energy from the slightest changes in ambient temperature.
On the back, behind the movement, there is a hermetically sealed pressure vessel. This contains a mixture of gases that expands as the temperature rises and contracts as it falls. Even a temperature change of around one degree Celsius provides enough energy to keep the clock running for around 24 hours.

The Atmos is one of the most energy-efficient mechanical clocks in existence. Its pendulum swings extremely slowly and therefore requires only a fraction of the energy needed by a conventional pendulum clock. Thanks to the low friction and low torque, even a minimal supply of energy is sufficient.
All components are designed to ensure the smoothest possible operation. High-quality bearings, carefully machined gears and a finely tuned escapement ensure that as little energy as possible is lost.

At the heart of the Atmos is the gas-filled pressure cell. When the ambient temperature changes, the internal pressure changes too.
The movements of the pressure cell are transmitted to the mainspring via a system of levers and chains. This allows energy to be stored continuously without any intervention from the user.

The combination of temperature-dependent energy storage, extremely low energy consumption and precise mechanical engineering makes the Atmos one of the most fascinating designs in clockmaking. As long as the ambient temperature changes from time to time, the clock can run for many decades without needing to be wound manually.

Condition:
The movement runs with absolute accuracy and reliability. The case is in its original condition, with slight wear to the finish on corners and edges, as is to be expected given its age.

Price: €2,750