(Compressor Geographic, different variations)
Compressor Geographic is a natural fusion of 2 successful model from the Master range, namely the Geographic and the Compressor Memovox.
From the very beginning, MJLC intended the Compressor Geographic as a precision mechanical engineering which is bold and friendly to frequent travelers. It spotted the familiar 2-timezone Geographic complication with a choice of 24 cities in a user-friendly design.
The brief origin of the now prominent compressor key design was briefly explained here at our previous coverage of Compressor Memovox launch last year (see
http://www.thepurists.com/watch/features/jaw/jlcmastercomp/index.html )
We also covered the launch of the model in Singapore this year here at
http://www.network54.com/Hide/Forum/thread?forumid=234648&messageid=1066713126 albeit with very limited technical details.
Movement Calibre 923 used is modified version of the old reliable patented Calibre 929/3, to accommodate the new Compressor key layout at 2 and 4 and an a (cute) windowed AM/PM indicator. Improvements are also made by simplifying the 929/3.
(This old reliable calibre 929/3 was first used in 1996 with the Master Geographic. Automatic winding, power reserve indicator, 24 hour second time zone, day/night indicator, 28,800 vph, 38 jewels, 293 parts and only 4.85mm high)
Before I go into details of the Compression key, it is worthwhile to point out that compressor Geographic managed to cut down the number of crowns from 3 in Compressor Memovox to 2 in this model. 1 crown now to start the watch, set the hours/minutes and synchronise the 2 time-zones. The other is to adjust the second time zone. A somewhat less obvious quick date corrector is at 3 o’clock.
A few little known but notable facts:
A) The 18-carat Master Compressor Seal on the case-back is directly inspired by that of the 1958 Geophysic Chronometer, depicting a globe with longitudes and latitudes, symbolizing technical progress and the pursuit of excellence in terms of quality, reliability and precision. This Master Compressor Seal also guarantees compliance with the high demands set by the Master Control 1000 hour test.
(Seals of Geophysic and Compressor, from stickers to 18k gold)
(The solid gold seal)
B) The patented Compression key system compresses a gasket by diminishing the volume of the grove in which it is housed. Each crown with compression key comprises 4 gaskets, thereby guaranteeing optimal and long-term water-resistance. It is worthwhile to correct a common misconception; the role of the keys is to secure the crown, not to lock it.
(The compressor key diagram)
The compressor key is a distinct improvement upon the screw-in crown for the following factors:
(Key in closed position, gasket now compressed, indicated by one WHITE arrow)
(Key in opened position, gasket is not compressed, recommended position for making adjustment but should be closed after adjustment to ensure full protection)
1. Because the to-and-fro movement of the screw thread takes place INSIDE the case, protected from sand, dust and humidity; it is not subjected to deterioration.
2. Since the compression key system is independent from the winding-stem and the key not connected to the calibre, it preserves the movement from any mechanical stress relating to it use.
3. The system can be used even when the movement is fully wound with no risk of damage to the mainspring.
(How the gasket work)
C) Several different straps, all cut and crafted with the characteristic double saddle-stitching, can be ordered with the watch, including the newly developed water-resistant leather:
1. Calfskin strap to give a retro touch to the steel models, only fine leather from small sized skins with extremely fine grain is used.
2. Alligator leather to underscore the precious nature of gold models.
D) The metal bracelet in steel or pink gold is developed by MJLC and comes with a fast length change of over 2 x 4mm. It is fully integrated and ergonomic, it has a supply fit on the wrist, as some owners have discovered.
(The JLC developed bracelet)
Here are the specifications:
(The Master Compressor Geographic)
Movement:
MJLC Calibre 923, Automatic winding, crafted, assembled and decorated by hand, 28,800 vph, 40 hour power reserve, 31 jewels, 281 parts, 4.90mm high. Oscillating weight segment in heavy metal.
Functions:
Hours, minutes, centre seconds, pointer-type date display, 24 time zone disc, AM/PM indicator.
Dial:
White gold version, slate-grey, luminescent numerals and hour-markers
Pink Gold version, slate-grey, luminsescent numerals and hour-markers
Stainless Steel Version, Brilliant black, slate-grey counters, luminescent numerals and hour-markers.
Hands:
Hour and minute, trapeze-shaped in rhodium plated brass
Small seconds, white lacquered rhodium plated brass with red tip.
Date, rhodium plated
2nd time zone, trapeze shaped, white lacquered
Case
Diameter 41.5mm, domed sapphire crystal, hardness No.9. Master Compressor seal on case-back in 18k gold.
Water resistant:
100M
Case Materials
White Gold, Pink Gold and Stainless Steel
Leather Straps:
21/18, matt honey-coloured alligator leather for white gold version, matt chocolate-coloured alligator leather or pink gold version and caramel coloured calfskin for steel version. Cream-coloured double stitching. 18mm folding clasp in matching gold or steel.
Bracelets:
Ptented, 5 dual-axis links, brushed for the steel model and polished for the pink gold model. Exclusive JLC clasp, with fast summer/winter or morning/evening length change enabling fine adjustment over 2 x 4mm. White Gold bracelet not available yet
Jaw.