The Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 496 is a self-winding (automatic) mechanical movement produced by Jaeger-LeCoultre, primarily used in the brand’s modern Master Control line. Known for its reliability, elegance, and slim design, the Caliber 496 is part of the company’s commitment to combining technical excellence with understated aesthetics. It is a direct descendant of JLC’s long tradition of in-house movements and adheres to the brand’s rigorous 1,000-Hour Control certification standard.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Jaeger-LeCoultre

• Caliber: 496

• Type: Automatic (self-winding)

• Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds, date

• Jewels: 32

• Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour (vph)

• Power Reserve: Approximately 43 hours

• Diameter: ~26 mm

• Height: ~3.7 mm

• Rotor: Unidirectional, centrally mounted

• Winding: Ball-bearing rotor system

• Certification: 1,000-Hour Control tested

Features and Design

The Caliber 496 is a modern, reliable movement developed for slim, classic watches. Its key attributes include:

• High-beat rate (28,800 vph) for improved accuracy and smoother hand movement

• Central rotor on ball bearings, providing efficient and quiet winding

• Date complication at 3 o’clock, integrated directly into the main plate

• Fine finishing, including perlage and Côtes de Genève on the rotor and bridges

• Anti-shock system and high-quality materials for long-term durability

• No hacking seconds in early versions (may vary by model)

The movement is built to balance thinness with performance, a critical trait for dress watches.

Watches Powered by Caliber 496

The Caliber 496 is most commonly found in:

• Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Date (especially earlier 39 mm models)

• Some Master Ultra Thin automatic models

• Select Jaeger-LeCoultre dress watches with date-only functionality

These watches typically feature:

• Slim cases between 38 mm and 40 mm

• Clean, symmetrical dials with dauphine hands and applied indices

• Date window at 3 o’clock, with subtle framing

• Transparent sapphire casebacks, showcasing the decorated movement

Reliability and Servicing

The Caliber 496 is known for:

• Robust and accurate performance

• Ease of service by certified JLC watchmakers

• Excellent finishing and precision, backed by the 1,000-Hour Control (which tests the entire watch, not just the movement)

• Typical service interval: 6–8 years, depending on usage and conditions

Final Thoughts

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 496 is a modern, dependable automatic movement tailored for elegant dress watches. With its slim dimensions, date functionality, and excellent finishing, it exemplifies the brand’s philosophy of technical refinement and timeless design. Though not as flashy as JLC’s high complications, the 496 remains a quiet powerhouse within the brand’s catalog—offering quality and performance that meets the demands of daily wear with understated sophistication.