A lot of us often find ourselves mesmerised by the watches worn by characters in films. These timepieces are more than just accessories; they often play a significant role in defining a character’s personality and story.
Think of Steve McQueen’s Tag Heuer Monaco in Le Mans or Daniel Craig’s Omega Seamaster in Casino Royale. Among such iconic watches, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual Calendar stands out, especially as it appears on the wrist of Doctor Stephen Strange, played by Benedict Cumberbatch in Marvel’s Doctor Strange movies.
Dr. Strange’s Jaeger LeCoultre Watch / Marvel
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Doctor Strange’s Journey and His Beloved Watch
In the 2016 film Doctor Strange, we are introduced to the brilliant yet arrogant neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange. His wealth and fame are evident in his luxurious lifestyle, which includes a collection of high-end timepieces meticulously mounted on winder cuffs. Among these watches, sharp-eyed viewers have identified a Rolex Daytona and a TAG Heuer Monaco. However, the watch that stands out the most is the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual, which he carefully selects before embarking on a fateful car ride.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre watch plays a pivotal role in one of the most harrowing scenes of the film – the car crash that ends Strange’s career as a surgeon. As he speeds along the road, his car crashes, and his hands, the instruments of his trade, are severely injured. This incident marks the beginning of his journey from a self-centered doctor to the mystical Sorcerer Supreme. The watch, with its shattered crystal, remains a symbol of his old life and the love he once shared with Christine Palmer, played by Rachel McAdams.
Doctor Strange’s Broken Watch Reads “Time will tell how much I love you – Christine” / Jaeger-LeCoultre
Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual / Jaeger-LeCoultre
The Inscription and Its Emotional Significance
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual is not just any watch; it holds deep emotional significance for Doctor Strange. The solid caseback of the watch is engraved with the words, “Time will tell how much I love you – Christine.” This personalised message from Christine makes the watch a constant reminder of his past and the love he lost. Unlike the retail model, which features a clear sapphire caseback, the watch in the film is specially customised.
In the 2022 sequel, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the shattered Jaeger-LeCoultre watch makes a return. Despite the chaos of multiple timelines converging, Doctor Strange holds onto the damaged timepiece. In one scene, he repairs the watch, symbolically moving on from his past and embracing a new phase in his life.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual design / Jaeger-LeCoultre
Engineering & Design
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual Calendar is a masterpiece of horological engineering. Crafted in the Swiss Jura, it features an automatic Caliber 868 movement housed in a modest 39mm stainless steel case. The movement, visible through the clear sapphire caseback (unlike Doctor Strange’s customised version), drives the perpetual calendar functions displayed on the dial.
The silvered dial is covered with polished black nickel hour markers and dauphine hands. The perpetual calendar displays the date at 3 o’clock, the month at 6 o’clock, the year in an aperture at 7:30, the day at 9 o’clock, and the moon phase at 12 o’clock. The watch also features a unique practical function: a small aperture that turns red between 10 PM and 2 AM, indicating when not to adjust the calendar functions to avoid damaging the movement.
Living up to its name, the Master Ultra Thin Perpetual boasts a case thickness of just 9.2mm, with the movement itself measuring a wafer-thin 4.72mm. This sleek profile, combined with an elegant black leather strap, makes it a sophisticated choice for any occasion. Priced at $26,100 USD, it’s a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate Swiss craftsmanship and timeless design.
The watch from “Doctor Strange” / Marvel
Benedict Cumberbatch and Jaeger-LeCoultre
Benedict Cumberbatch, who portrays Doctor Strange, is a brand ambassador for Jaeger-LeCoultre. He has been seen wearing their watches at various red carpet events and awards shows.
The Master Ultra Thin Perpetual’s association with themes of time and mysticism makes it a fitting choice for Doctor Strange, a character deeply involved with the manipulation of time and reality.
The Master Ultra Thin Perpetual Calendar is an integral part of Doctor Strange’s journey and character development, from symbolising his past life and lost love to representing his growth and acceptance of his destiny. For fans of the Marvel Universe and watch enthusiasts alike, it is a testament to the powerful storytelling that a well-chosen timepiece can bring to the big screen.
Investing in a Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual means owning a piece of cinematic history and a marvel of Swiss watchmaking. Just remember, unlike Doctor Strange, you might not have the mystical powers to repair it if it gets damaged, so handle it with care!
Benedict Cumberbatch wearing Dr. Strange’s Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual / Jaeger-LeCoultre