Le Mans Chronograph Gunmetal Grey Ref. LJ-LM-015

Renowned as a historic manufacturer of Swiss-made mechanical timepieces, Le Jour (meaning “The Day” in French) began as a French distributor and retailer for Heuer chronographs manufactured during the 1970s. These chronographs have become highly sought-after timepieces today. Paying tribute to Le Jour’s proud legacy, the brand is revived with sports models inspired by racing, sailing, yachting, and aviation. The wrist watches are constructed using high-end materials and reliable Swiss mechanical movements.

Le Jour Le Mans Chronograph Gunmetal Grey Ref. LJ-LM-015

​​In the 1980s, when racing chronographs were booming, Le Jour introduced their 7203 chronographs to the European market - an iconic piece manufactured by Heuer based on the design of the Heuer Pasadena. The wristwatch became an incredibly sought-after model by chronograph collectors as it was an affordable Heuer chronograph alternative. Although Le Jour fell victim to the quartz crisis and perished alongside many great watch brands, they were revived in recent years with impressive vintage-inspired offerings that just look gorgeous - what a way to restore the brand to its former glory.

Recalling their comprehensive knowledge of chronographs from back in the day, Le Jour unveils their latest racing-inspired chronograph that revisits the classic chronograph designs from watches of the late 1960s to the early 1980s. The Le Mans Chronograph Gunmetal Grey Ref. LJ-LM-015 is housed in a well-constructed 316L stainless steel case and is made like a robust tool watch. 

“Exotic” sub-dial counters

With a case diameter of 42mm, a lug-to-lug distance of 51mm and a thickness of 17mm (including the domed sapphire crystal and caseback), the Le Mans Chronograph exhibits a bold presence while maintaining excellent wearability on the wrist. A clear high quality in the fit and finish is demonstrated with fine satin brushing all around the case that carries down to the solid 22mm stainless steel oyster style bracelet. The brushed finishing at the top of the lugs and side of the watch case is transitioned seamlessly, with a slightly polished chamfer running from one lug to another, elevating the piece with an extra dash of refinement.

The Le Mans Chronograph Gunmetal Grey Ref. LJ-LM-015 features a fixed brushed stainless steel bezel with a tachymeter scale in a dusky black IP finish for measuring speed over a fixed distance. The tachymeter is a convenient feature, especially for drivers in sports-car racing.

Screw-down pushers and crown for tighter water-resistant

Visually distinguishable as a sports chronograph from its unmistakable black chronograph registers at the 12, 6 and 9 o’clock position, the Le Mans Chronograph Gunmetal Grey Ref. LJ-LM-015 presents a radiant dark grey sunburst dial that shimmers gracefully in the light, bringing a beautiful lustre to the dial. Slender baton hands retain the legibility of the chronograph registers with minimal obstruction, allowing for an overall balanced and coherent dial design. For a true vintage appeal, the dial is protected by a highly domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, mimicking the warm charm of acrylic crystals used in the past.

The Le Mans Chronograph Gunmetal Grey Ref. LJ-LM-015 is driven by the dependable Swiss Selita SW500 automatic chronograph movement. This renowned movement is no stranger to many chronograph lovers, being a tried-and-tested movement with 25 jewels beating at 28,800 beats per hour. Thanks to its expertly engraved screw-down caseback, the watch flaunts a surprising 20 ATM (200 meters) of water resistance (for a mechanical chronograph), granting ample protection against accidental water splashes and then some.

Swiss Super-Luminova that glows green in the dark

Lately, Le Jour has been delivering multiple vintage-inspired models that look absolutely amazing. This latest addition brings a compelling design many will surely appreciate with the perfect blend of sophistication and a retro style, the Le Jour Le Mans Chronograph Gunmetal Grey Ref. LJ-LM-015 bears a classic look that will stay timeless for many years.