Jaeger-LeCoultre has long been known for its innovative strides in women’s watches, releasing the first ultra-small watch for women in the early 1900’s, which is still recognized as the world’s smallest mechanical movement. Over the years, it has exhibited various technologies in women’s lines, including moon phases, celestial maps, perpetual calendars, tourbillons, and minute repeaters. More recently, in 2012, it launched the Rendez Vous collection, blending high horology with a jewelry aesthetic.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Q3548490 stems from that collection, featuring a date window and various elements that embody the watch brand’s romanticism, including a mother-of-pearl dial, a diamond bezel, and a black leather strap. Precision Watches is pleased to welcome this model to our collection, priced at $8750. Find out how this “loyal daily companion” for the modern woman can enhance your timepiece selection.
Jaeger LeCoultre Rendez-Vous Date Review
Appearance
With a 37.5mm stainless steel case, this is a larger women’s luxury watch. However, the rounded contours provide an elegant appearance, while the highly polished surfaces, gems, and materials contribute to a jewelry-like aesthetic.
The mother-of-pearl dial is simply lovely, offering a creamy white tone with colorful accents that catch the light. The large Arabic numerals are almost calligraphic, providing a sense of whimsy, in line with the romantic, vintage-inspired theme. Each is accented by a small diamond.
Other features to consider include the inner minute track, which adds structure to the dial, and the date window at 6 o’clock, which fits cleanly into the dial without overwhelming the design. The blue contoured hands enhance legibility and add a pop of color while maintaining the watch’s feminine appearance.
The Fit
Although this watch is large, its overall design allows it to fit comfortably on the wrist. The slim movement contributes to a thinner case, while the lugs are short and curved. A low profile means it will not easily catch on bags or clothing.
On smaller wrists (5.5” to6”), the watch will read like a statement piece. Wearers with medium-sized wrists (6” to 6.7”) can enjoy a more balanced appearance. On larger wrists, it will appear as a classic dress watch.
The Strap
The watch is complemented by a black leather alligator strap with a glossy finish. It contrasts with the white, toning down the sparkle, and preventing a look that’s too ‘sugary sweet’.
Padded near the lugs and tapering toward the clasp, the strap offers a smooth transition that feels substantial, not bulky. Its soft underside is comfortable against the skin. Once broken in, it curves naturally on the wrist.
The final touch is the stainless-steel pin buckle strap, which provides optimal fit and matches the case, creating a cohesive appearance.
Caseback and Movement
Turning the watch over, we see a sapphire display caseback, revealing the watch’s Jaeger LeCoultre Calibre 899/1 in-house automatic movement, including a skeletonized rotor and bridges with striping and perlage. The blue screws and nicely finished edges are refined rather than showy, keeping in theme with the overall design.
Features to note are the 28,800 VPS beat rate for smooth seconds, a 38–42-hour power reserve, and a 50-meter water resistance rating.
About Jaeger-LeCoultre
Jaeger LeCoultre (JLC) is a Swiss luxury watchmaker founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre. He partnered with Edmond Jaeger in 1903, with the brand name formalizing in 1937.
Over the years, JLC produced more than 1,400 in-house caliber movements and innovations, including the smallest movements integrated into their women’s watches and the world’s thinnest pocket watch. Other milestones include keyless winding (1847), the first automatic watch (1946), the first automatic alarm wristwatch (1956), and the Geophysic chronometer historic tool watch (1958).
Today, the brand oversees fully in-house production in Le Sentier, a village in its founding region, Vallee de Joux, and is known as the ‘watchmaker or watchmakers’, inspiring other watch brands.
Purchase Your Next Watch at Precision Watches
If you’re in the market for a new watch, Precision Watches is the ultimate destination. If you didn’t see a watch on this list that caught your eye, we also recommend exploring our women’s luxury watch buying guide, which covers a wider range of styles and price points to help you compare different looks.
This pre-owned Jaeger-LeCoultre Rendez-Vous Date is a great example of how a well-kept luxury watch can offer both craftsmanship and value. If you’re exploring similar pieces, browse our current selection of pre-owned luxury watches, or visit our Lower Gwynedd showroom to see what’s available in person.
FAQs
Who is the Jaeger-Le Coultre Rendez Vous Date Q3548490 best suited for?
The model is designed for someone who wants a high-end mechanical watch with a stylish jewelry-inspired flair.
Is the Rendez-Vous Date Q3548490 a good everyday watch, or is it mainly for special wear?
Although the watch has dressy qualities, such as diamond accents and a mother-of-pearl dial, its steel case, automatic movement, and water resistance make it suitable for everyday wear. It’s a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
Is the mother-of-pearl diamond easy to read in different lighting?
Yes, while the mother-of-pearl dial has color inflections that could potentially interfere with legibility, the large Arabic numerals and bold leaf-style hands offer optimal contrast, making the watch easy to read.
Is this a high-maintenance watch?
No, this is not a particularly high-maintenance watch. However, it does require the expected care of most women’s luxury watches. Avoid water immersion, store it safely, and clean it to remove oil and dirt build-up.
What kind of maintenance should an owner expect over time?
Like most automatic mechanical watches, this model should be professionally serviced every 3-5 years, depending on wear and usage. If you’re unfamiliar with how this works, our guide on how automatic watches work explains the mechanics in more detail. The leather strap may need replacement over time, and the case and diamond-set bezel should be gently cleaned with a soft cloth to maintain their appearance.
Will this design age well, or is it trend-driven?
The watch’s Arabic numerals, leather strap, and round case make it more timeless than trendy. It was designed as a modern take on traditional women’s watches.
