For several years, the Jaeger-LeCoultrehas been associating the mechanical prodigy of the Atmos with creations by artistic craftspeople and contemporary artists (Marc Newson, etc.). In 2011, the Atmos is celebrating straw marquetry work(called marqueterie paille in French), an ancient decorative technique that was revived by interior designers during the 1930s.
Straw marquetry work enjoyed its heyday in the 18th century, when Royal courts and noble families had various pieces of furniture or panels decorated according to this technique that was mastered by a few rare artisans and nuns labouring in the seclusion of their convents. It was based on the same principle as wood marquetry, except that the inlays are in straw.
Jaeger-LeCoultre is now rediscovering this all but forgotten craft by associating its iconic clock with this technique still cultivated by a talented artisan who continues to master the traditional gestures consisting of splitting a wisp of oat or wheat straw, soaking it in water and then flattening it with a hot iron. Like the “secret” furniture that was so much in vogue in 18th century European courts, the Atmos Marqueterie Paille reveals its true nature only when a button is pressed in order to open the inlaid outer cabinet and unveil the “celestial” mechanism within.
This almost perpetual clock, which also displays the month and the moon phase, will be issued in a strictly limited edition of 28 clocks.
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