Jaeger LeCoultre Atmos Clocks - Buyers Guide

About Atmos Clocks

The Jaeger LeCoultre Atmos clock is a luxury, near-perpetual timepiece that runs without batteries, electricity, or manual winding. Invented in 1928 by Jean-Léon Reutter and manufactured in Switzerland by Jaeger LeCoultre and still in production today. The Atmos clock movement draws energy from small atmospheric temperature changes, where a fluctuation powers it for two days, making it an incredibly energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and precise mechanical masterpiece. These clocks are known for their intricate designs and exceptional craftsmanship.

Atmos Vendome - Calibre 526

• Power Source: A sealed capsule containing ethyl chloride expands and contracts with temperature changes, driving a chain that winds the mainspring.

• Mechanism: It features a slow-swinging torsion pendulum suspended on a hair-thin wire, oscillating only twice per minute.

• Design: Many Atmos models are housed in a glass or Lucite/Plexiglass (acrylic) case, with a gold plated or rhodium plated solid brass frame which allows the movement to be fully visible. However, there is a huge variety of Atmos clock case designs manufactured over the years. Where most Atmos clocks are based on a series of standard movements, prices can vary substantially based on the design of the case and rarity of the case design/movement combination.

• Virtually Perpetual: Because the mechanism moves at a significantly lower speed than conventional clocks, it requires very little power and can function for 20 years or more without service. The Atmos clock movement is a highly engineered precision instrument and runs dry i.e. it does not need oil lubricants like most clocks or watches.

  
  

• Precision: These clocks are known for their accuracy, often only losing a few seconds per month.

Selecting A Model

• Choose a style that appeals to your taste and which complements your home décor. Use Google to display and select the different and diverse range of models. (Images in this article are of some of the rare Atmos clocks which Wessex Gallery has in stock or has previously sold).

• Prices vary from a few hundred dollars for vintage models through to many thousands for contemporary or rarer models.

• Condition is paramount. Secondhand clocks can often exhibit heavy wear to the cases and in some instances are non-running. My recommendation is to buy the best example you can find withing your price bracket and ensure the movement is running and keeping good time before clinching a deal.

• Atmos clocks were frequently presented as retirement gifts or to mark special occasions and have an associated presentation plaque attached to the lower front of the case. Be aware that some buyers do not like clocks with presentation plaques and this can be detrimental if re-selling. Removing the plaque will probably leave residual damage to the case.

  
  
  
  

  

  Atmos Embassy - Calibre 526

Bamboo Case Atmos Clock - Calibre 526

Rhodium Plated Faux Lapis Lazuli Atmos Clock - Calibre 526

Where To Purchase

• Authorised Dealers - Buy from authorized Jaeger LeCoultre dealers to ensure warranty coverage and get all the associated paperwork and packaging. However, this will almost certainly restrict you to current models only and means that you will be paying full retail price which can be relatively high.

• Secondhand Dealers - If you require a vintage/secondhand Atmos clock, research online platforms/shops but verify their reputation and return policies before purchasing. This will give you access to a broader range of models/prices. It is essential that you request a detailed condition report on any potential purchase and check out if the dealer offers a warranty.

• Auction Houses - Atmos clocks regularly come up for sale at auction houses around the world. However, if you purchase at auction there are no guarantees. If you go this route, ask the auctioneers for a detailed description/condition report and request high resolution images to determine the condition of both the movement and the case. Ask the auctioneer if the movement is running. However, be aware that the auction house will not guarantee that the movement is functioning correctly - it is very much a case of buyer beware.

  If you are new to the world of auctions, you may like to refer to our "Buying Art & Antiques At Auction - Beginners Guide" for some advice on purchasing at auction.

• Some clocks in the secondary market will have their original packing cases and paperwork which can be an added bonus. Some buyers may consider this essential however, whilst nice to have, this does not appear to add significantly to value.

• Note that if you purchase overseas you will incur significant shipping/insurance costs and almost certainly will have to pay import duty and associated fees.

Atmos Cintree - Calibre 526

Atmos Clock Shipping

It is absolutely critical that the Atmos clock movement is locked before moving or shipping the clock. Even if just moving within a room, the movement must be locked. Failure to do so will almost certainly result in damage to the movement.

The movement locking lever is usually located just below the 6 o'clock position on the dial.

To lock the clock movement:

• Wait until the pendulum (the large rotating wheel) reaches its extreme point of rotation (the moment it stops moving in one direction before swinging back).

• Gently slide the locking lever fully to the right at that exact moment to lock the movement.

• Never lock the clock while the pendulum is in mid-rotation.

  
  

  Secondary Locking Mechanisms

  
  

  • Some models (like the Calibre 526 or 540) have a secondary locking/shipping screw located directly underneath the base.

  • Screw this in (upward) until it supports the pendulum.

    
    

Atmos Clock Setup

• Atmos clocks require a stable, vibration-free and level location away from direct sunlight and drafts to maintain accuracy.

• Atmos clocks will only function if they are perfectly level.

  
  

  Levelling Your Atmos Clock:

  
  

• Place the clock on a solid, non-jarring surface, ideally its permanent location.

• Locate the built-in spirit level in the base plate of the clock. This is usually located at the front centre of the base plate.

• Rotate the two front feet (screws) until the bubble in the spirit level is centered. The rear feet are fixed.

• If no spirit level bubble is present, locate the 'centering point' (small hole in the centre of the base plate) and use the screw feet to align the pointed bottom tip of pendulum directly over it.

Unlocking Your Atmos Clock:

• Some models (like the Calibre 526 or 540) have a secondary locking/shipping screw located directly underneath the base. Unscrew the secondary locking screw first until it is flush with the bottom plate before attempting to use the main locking lever located below the 6 o'clock position on the dial.

• Once the secondary locking screw has been unscrewed, carefully push the locking lever, located below the 6 o'clock position on the dial, from the right to the left to release the pendulum. The balance/torsion wheel on the pendulum should start to rotate gently on its own. If the balance wheel does not start to turn, very gently turn the balance wheel and release, allowing it to start oscillating. Do not force it.

Important Considerations:

• Setting Time: Only move the minute hand clockwise to avoid damaging the mechanism.

  
  

• Timekeeping can be adjusted with a lever on the top of the movement to speed up or slow down the movement (refer to image below).

Servicing and Maintenance Requirements

• The Atmos clock is highly sensitive to dust and regular light dusting of the case is recommended to keep the clock in good condition.

• Atmos clock cases have a lacquered finish. Avoid using any solvent cleaners or metal polishes on the case as this may strip the lacquer and cause the case to tarnish.

• Servicing may be required very occasionally to ensure optimal performance.

  
  

  Factors to be taken into consideration if servicing is required:

  
  

  • Servicing should only be undertaken by a qualified professional. Never attempt repairs unless you have the relevant experience.

  • For the best result, return your Atmos clock to a registered Jaeger LeCoultre dealer who will send the clock to the Jaeger LeCoultre factory in Switzerland for servicing/repair by qualified specialists. This is a relatively expensive option but guarantees a repair to the highest standard using genuine parts and protects the value of your asset.

  • Most local horologists/clock repairers will not have the skills required to repair an Atmos clock. However, they may be able to recommend someone who is competent to carry out the work. Additionally, use an online search engine such as Google to identify Atmos clock repairers in your locality or contact local clock collectors/clubs where you may be able to get advice or a recommendation. However, finding a local specialist who is competent to effect Atmos clock repairs just may not be possible.

  • The availability of spares parts on the secondary market is very limited for earlier vintage models and for newer models virtually non-existent. Fitting non-standard or remanufactured parts could devalue the clock and ultimately lead to damage.

  • Remember, an Atmos clock is a precision engineered instrument and runs dry, not requiring any lubrication. Never lubricate an Atmos clock movement as this may negatively impact performance.