Wristwatch · Anti-magnetic chronometer wristwatch

Jaeger-LeCoultre Geophysic Ref. E168

Partially verified

This 18k yellow gold manual wind wristwatch, known as the 'Geophysic' reference E168, was introduced by Jaeger-LeCoultre circa 1958. Designed to honor the International Geophysical Year and the company's 125th anniversary, the watch was constructed as a tool for scientists to resist magnetic fields up to 600 Gauss. It houses the caliber P478/BWSbr movement, which is protected by an anti-magnetic shield. The watch features a cream-colored dial with center seconds and is enclosed in an 18k yellow gold case with a screwed case-back. This specific piece is part of a limited production of only 30 gold versions. The watch is signed on the dial, case, and movement and includes a gold-plated JLC buckle.

Front view of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Geophysic in 18k yellow gold with brown leather strap. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source: catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category: Wristwatch · Anti-magnetic chronometer wristwatch
Maker / attribution: Jaeger-LeCoultre
Reference: E168
Catalogue / lot identifier: 237
Source-reported date: circa 1958
Source-reported place: Switzerland
Source-reported serial: 747456

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial Construction

The watch is housed in an 18k yellow gold case featuring a screwed case-back design, which serves to protect the internal movement from external environmental factors. The aesthetic is marked by a cream white dial displaying center seconds and applied hour markers at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions.

The auction description indicates that the case condition is excellent with clearly defined hallmarks. Conversely, the dial is reported to have some oxidation, though it remains in good condition. The watch is fitted with a gold-plated JLC buckle, though the strap itself is not identified as original.

Evidence for this section

“18k yellow gold, manual wind anti-magnetic to 600 Gauss, chronometer wristwatch with cream white dial, center second and screwed case-back.”
“The case remains in execllent with the hallmark between the lugs clearly defined and sharp, attesting to its authenticity and well-preserved nature.”
“Dial: 3-6-01 Good Slightly oxidized”

Movement and Technical Specification

The timepiece is powered by the manual wind Caliber P478/BWSbr, which is explicitly noted for its anti-magnetic capabilities. Engineered for the International Geophysical Year, this movement is designed to function accurately within magnetic fields reaching up to 600 Gauss, provided by an additional anti-magnetic shield.

According to the auction description, the movement is a 17-jewel caliber, adjusted to five positions and temperatures. The source advises that an overhaul of the movement is recommended for the new owner, as the current status is categorized as 'good'. The movement carries its own serial number, distinct from the case serial number.

Evidence for this section

“featuring the superior Cal. P478/BWSbr movement protected by an antimagnetic shield”
“Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense”

Provenance and Rarity

The watch was obtained from an Asian collector and the current seller reports having stored the object in a safe for the previous 30 years.

Its rarity is defined by its small total production compared to the stainless steel variants of the same reference.

Evidence for this section

“With a limited production of 1038 pieces in stainless steel and only 30 in gold , made this model is exceptionally rare.”
“The seller has meticulously preserved this watch in a safe for over 30 years”
“Provenance Property of an Asian collector”

Open research questions

What is the specific date of manufacture for this individual serial number within the 1958 production year?
Are there any known variations in the dial signature for the gold-cased E168 models compared to the steel models?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Jaeger-LeCoultre Geophysic Ref. E168
Field	Source-reported value	Source quotation
Reference	E168	“REF. E168”
Material	18k yellow gold	“18k yellow gold”
Movement	Caliber P478/BWSbr	“Caliber P478/BWsbr.”
Magnetic Resistance	600 Gauss	“anti-magnetic to 600 Gauss”
Case Serial Number	747456	“Case No. 747456”
Movement Serial Number	1276006	“Movement No. 1276006”
Year of Introduction	1958	“Launched in 1958”
Production Quantity	30 gold versions	“only 30 in gold”

Visible details

The dial features applied numerals at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions.
The movement bridge is engraved with 'P478/BWSbr' and '17 JEWELS'.
The case features lugs for a leather strap.
The winding crown is plain and integrated into the case profile.

Research qualifications

The exact history of the watch prior to the seller's 30-year period of ownership is not documented.
The extent of internal mechanical wear beyond the suggested overhaul requirement is unverified.

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

JAEGER LECOULTRE, REF. E168, ANTI-MAGNETIC CHRONOMETER, ‘GEOPHYSIC’, 18K YELLOW GOLD

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record ae1353d4a0

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.