Jaeger-LeCoultre, the esteemed Swiss watchmaker renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship and innovation, has unveiled an extraordinary new chapter in its Made of Makers programme.
This time, the Maison collaborates with celebrated French perfumer Nicolas Bonneville to create three exclusive olfactory signatures that encapsulate its unique identity. Each fragrance represents a meticulous blend of artistic creativity and scientific precision, reflecting Jaeger-LeCoultre’s commitment to excellence.
Through this innovative collaboration, Bonneville has crafted a portfolio of original fragrances offered in various formats, each embodying the Maison’s essence and heritage. The short formulas boast high concentrations of noble ingredients, leaving behind sophisticated and distinctive trails that resonate with the wearer.
The Made of Makers programme is a pioneering initiative that seeks to bridge the worlds of horology and art. By partnering with talented artists, designers, and craftsmen from diverse fields, Jaeger-LeCoultre fosters a spirit of creativity and expertise that transcends traditional boundaries. The program challenges the notion of classical art as static, emphasizing its potential for continuous reinvention.
“Today’s classics were once considered radical, and our program highlights how traditional forms can be innovated through new materials and media,” explains a Jaeger-LeCoultre spokesperson. “Just as our watchmakers respect tradition as a foundation for creativity, these artists explore new horizons, showcasing how both watchmaking and classical art reflect cultural evolution and evoke deep emotions.”
The Made of Makers community has previously embraced a wide array of disciplines, including contemporary art, gastronomy, and music, collaborating with luminaries such as Zimoun, Michael Murphy, and chef Nina Métayer. The addition of perfumery with Nicolas Bonneville enriches this portfolio, expanding the creative dialogue.
Nicolas Bonneville is recognized as one of the most innovative perfumers of his generation. His work is characterized by a harmonious blend of traditional and avant-garde techniques, utilizing rare essences and natural ingredients. Bonneville’s passion for scent ignited at the tender age of 12 during a transformative visit to Grasse, the heart of French perfumery.
Self-taught, he honed his craft through experimentation and mentorship under industry giants like Jacques Maurel and Francis Kurkdjian. “In perfumery, just as in painting, maintaining the purity of blends is essential,” Bonneville states. “The principle of ‘less is more’ allows each fragrance to retain clarity and depth, resulting in a scent with real character.”
The creation of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s olfactory identity reveals the intrinsic connection between perfumery and watchmaking. Both disciplines require meticulous artistry, balancing tradition with innovation while emphasizing precision and detail. Just as a fine watch expresses personality and emotion, a carefully crafted fragrance evokes memories and feelings.
At the heart of both crafts lies an unwavering commitment to precision. In horology, every component must align perfectly for optimal functionality. Similarly, in perfumery, each ingredient must be meticulously measured and balanced; even the slightest variation can compromise the entire composition.
As Jaeger-LeCoultre continues to explore the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship, this collaboration with Nicolas Bonneville stands as a testament to the Maison’s enduring legacy. With these exclusive olfactory signatures, Jaeger-LeCoultre invites connoisseurs to experience a new dimension of luxury, where time and scent harmoniously intertwine.
