Precision, balance, and the skilful interplay of tradition and innovation are the cornerstones of fine watchmaking—qualities that Jaeger-LeCoultre, one of Switzerland’s most renowned names in horology, knows better than most. Now, the Swiss manufacturer is taking its craft into bold new territory: the world of perfumery.
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s new collaboration with French perfumer Nicolas Bonneville marks the latest chapter in its Made of Makers program—an initiative designed to bridge disciplines by inviting artists from diverse fields to reinterpret Jaeger-LeCoultre’s values through their unique crafts. Past collaborators have included figures from music, gastronomy, and contemporary art. This partnership with Bonneville speaks to the intrinsic connection between horology and perfumery, both grounded in a rich legacy of craftsmanship passed down through generations of skill and know-how.
Known for his pioneering approach that blends old-world principles with novel, avant-garde techniques, Bonneville has been perfecting his craft since discovering a passion for fragrance at the age of 12 during a holiday in Grasse. As part of the Made of Makers collaboration, the perfumer drew inspiration from the precise artistry and meticulous attention to detail found in Jaeger-LeCoultre’s watchmaking legacy, creating three exclusive fragrances that showcase minimalist yet distinctive compositions. Much like the finely tuned mechanisms of a watch, each component plays a vital role in crafting a harmoniously synced final product.
Each of the three fragrances is deeply rooted in the Maison’s heritage. The Timeless Stories draws inspiration from the iconic Reverso watch, capturing its duality of rugged durability and refined elegance with a blend of orris, leather, and woody notes. The Celestial Odyssey honours the moon, sun, and stars—guiding forces for ancient watchmakers—with a composition of patchouli, amber woods, and vanilla that evokes the art of celestial navigation. Finally, The Precision Pioneer pays tribute to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s origins, combining incense and vibrant wood to symbolize the transformative power of craftsmanship.
“Like watchmaking, the art of perfumery stands at the intersection of creativity, science, and precision,” said Chief Marketing Officer of Jaeger-LeCoultre Matthieu Le Voyer. “With his self-taught talent and artistic vision, Nicolas Bonneville brings an exciting new dimension to the program, which celebrates the convergence of craftsmanship across many disciplines and cultures.”