The Watch of Dr. Strange: More Than Just a Timepiece
When we think of Marvel's superheroes, the imagery of dynamic action sequences, intricate storylines, and powerful characters come to mind. Dr. Stephen Vincent Strange, or as most of us recognize him - Doctor Strange, stands out not only as a master mystic who can alter the fabric of time but also for his impeccable taste in luxury timepieces.
So, I know many people are wondering which watch was worn by Dr. Strange in the movie? The watch of Dr. Strange that we see in the movie was the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual 130842j.
Dr. Strange, played with precision by the Hollywood actor Benedict Cumberbatch, is depicted as a top-tier neurosurgeon with a penchant for speed and luxury. One of the film's pivotal moments revolves around a tragic accident. Driving distractedly, Strange tragically crashes his lavish $200k+ Lamborghini.
As heart-wrenching as that scene is, for watch enthusiasts, the real tear-jerker might be the fate of his carefully chosen Jaeger-LeCoultre watch. That was the moment, when watch enthusiasts (or at least me) were like “Interesting, I need to find out about that watch”.
The Watch of Dr. Strange - Jaeger LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual 130842j
The Watch of Dr. Strange - Jaeger LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual 130842j
The watch in question, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra-Thin Perpetual, isn't just any timepiece. Dr. Strange's version was especially unique. Why? While the original model, 130842j, typically boasts a transparent sapphire crystal on the case back, the film's rendition featured a solid case back - a rare deviation made specifically for the cinematic universe.
The JLC Master Ultra-Thin Perpetual130842J is a watch in a steel case that's about the size of a small cookie (39mm x 9.2mm). It's a fancy watch that you can see through, and it's good for up to 50 meters underwater. The watch runs on its own special engine called Caliber Ref. 868/1.
This watch can also show the date and month, and you don’t need to adjust it often. In a movie, instead of the usual see-through back, it has a special message on it. The message says, "Time will tell you how much I love you ~ Christine." People who've seen the movie will know this line.
That was definitely a watch with a backstory. Also the watch was chosen as a symbolic choice for a time-twisting tale.
It's no surprise that a movie deeply entrenched in the concept of time would have a significant focus on a wristwatch. The Jaeger-LeCoultre watch seems like a strategic product placement given the narrative's emphasis on time manipulation. But it wasn't the only timepiece that made a cameo. Doctor Strange's collection also featured the Jaeger LeCoultre Grande Reverso Rouge 1931 (though it remained unworn) and other luxurious brands like TAG Heuer and Rolex.
However, Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual is the only watch that accompanies the doctor throughout the film.
Beyond his mystical capabilities, Doctor Strange is also a tale of precision, timing, and the intricate dance of various components, much like the inner workings of a sophisticated wristwatch. His choice of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual is not just a nod to luxury but a reflection of the film's central theme - the inexorable march and malleability of time. As with any great story, it's the finer details like the watch of Dr. Strange that make it truly memorable.
Specifications of the Watch of Dr. Strange
Brand: Jaeger LeCoultre
Reference number: 130842J
Model: Master Ultra Thin Perpetual
Case size: 39 mm
Case thickness: 9.2 mm
Case material: Stainless steel
Bezel: Steel, brushed/polished
Dial color: Silver
Crystal: Scratch resistant Sapphire
Case back: Transparent
Clasp: Tang buckle
Movement type: Automatic
Movement: With 46 jewels, 28800 vph
Band material: Alligator leather
Water resistance: 50 m
Power reserve: 38 hours
Seconds hand: Floating
Retail price: $28,500.