Atmos III | chromium-plated metal

An Atmos Type III clock in remarkably good condition, made in 1951. The piece celebrates the ingenuity of the 1928 mechanism invented by Jean-Leon Reutter in a timeless design from LeCoultre. With the recent re-emergence of chrome accents and modernist elements in interior design, it adds a contemporary finish to a collector's home. This LeCoultre Atmos III dates back to 1951, and is a rare chrome-plated case, which few examples from the period are. It combines a remarkable mechanism with a truly timeless design that would not be out of place in any modern home. The mechanism that powers the Atmos was invented in 1928 by Jean-Leon Reutter, and sold by LeCoultre. A capsule of ethylene chloride gas, which has a low evaporation point of 12°C. The gas expands or contracts in response to the change in surrounding temperature. This capsule is connected to a short chain that moves back and forth and winds the mainspring. This unusual form of energy conversion means that the Atmos is close to being a perpetual motion machine, with a one degree change in temperature providing enough energy for 48 hours of power reserve. To complement this ingenious mechanism is the overall design of the clock, an affair of glass and steel that is still a hallmark of the modernism of Atmos pieces. The dark dial is rarer compared to its lighter-dial counterparts, and features applied indices and numerals in a contrasting silver. Despite the clock's age, it remains in remarkable condition, to the point where it looks as if it could have been made in the last few years, as opposed to nearly 75 years ago. If sold within the United Kingdom, this Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos clock will be subject to 20% VAT. Designer: Jaeger-LeCoultre Model: Atmos III Movement: manual-winding, calibre 519 Function: hours, minutes Features: late Art Deco - modernist design Materials: chrome-plated nickel Year: 1951 Size: 21 x 16 x 23 cm (H x W x D) Accompanying materials: papers, service box, archive extract (signed & dated) Condition This LeCoultre clock is in great overall condition, particularly for an object of its age. The chrome case is excellently preserved, with only a few very light scratches. Warranty The Atmos III clock was recently serviced by Jaeger-LeCoultre in February 2023. This rare clock also comes with a lifetime guarantee of authenticity from  A Collected Man.