Jaeger LeCoultre: Dream Shaper Exhibition

The evolution of women’s watches tells a story of time through the shifting codes of femininity. Notably, with The Dream Shaper, Jaeger-LeCoultre does more than showcase timepieces. Instead, it maps a cultural metamorphosis in which watches evolve into bold symbols of power, expression, and rebellion. Set in Shanghai from September 10 to 26, 2025, the exhibition invites visitors on a sensual dive into craftsmanship, innovation, and identity, all viewed through a distinctly female lens.

Clearly, this exhibition does not serve as a nostalgic heritage retrospective. On the contrary, it acts as a provocation. It boldly declares that women’s watches were never just decorative side notes in the history of horology. Rather, they have always been central to the story. And now, they take their rightful place at the forefront, highlighting the evolution of women’s watchmaking.

Four Eras, One Revolution

To structure this immersive journey, The Dream Shaper unfolds in four curated chapters. Each chapter reveals how design, technology, and societal transformation have reshaped what it means to wear time.

Age of Tradition

First, the Age of Tradition opens the exhibition with ornamental watches that also functioned as jewelry. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, when society deliberately excluded women from public and professional spheres, many found freedom through aesthetics. At this time, miniature pocket watches transformed into pendants and brooches. These elegant yet precise instruments became subtle signals of style, status, and self-expression. Therefore, Jaeger-LeCoultre did not simply follow fashion trends. Instead, it created tools of silent resistance—objects that communicated meaning when words were not permitted.

Age of Freedom

Next comes the Age of Freedom, which reflects the seismic cultural shifts that followed World War I. As women stepped into newfound autonomy, fashion evolved. Silhouettes sharpened, and so did watch design. In 1929, Jaeger-LeCoultre responded to this moment by launching the Calibre 101, the world’s smallest mechanical movement. As a result, women could wear time with unprecedented discretion and elegance. Signature pieces like the 101 Reine blurred the boundary between high horology and fine jewelry. Consequently, watches became more than functional objects. They became expressions of independence.

Age of Emancipation

Then, the Age of Emancipation carries visitors into the heart of mid-century modernism. By this point, women no longer dressed to be seen. Rather, they dressed to be felt: present, purposeful, and powerful. The rise of feminist icons occurred in parallel with a bold new design era in watchmaking. Timepieces became more architectural, more expressive, and unmistakably assertive. At the same time, Jaeger-LeCoultre reimagined its iconic Reverso through a distinctly feminine lens. These new interpretations did not whisper tradition. Instead, they spoke clearly and confidently of identity.

Age of Influence

Finally, the Age of Influence explores how women stepped into boardrooms, held political office, and shaped global culture from the 1970s onward. Not surprisingly, watch complications that had previously been reserved for male collectors began to reflect women’s rising ambition. Jaeger-LeCoultre responded to this moment with intention, introducing the Carnet de Rendez-Vous in 1991 and, later, the Rendez-Vous Shooting Star. Today, these creations continue to embody complexity and control. Most importantly, they symbolize a shift in how women actively shape their relationship with time.

Artisanship, Immersion, and Crystal Clarity

Beyond storytelling, The Dream Shaper also offers a fully tactile experience. From start to finish, Jaeger LeCoultre invites guests into its inner world of rare, meticulous skill. For example, visitors can observe gem-setting, miniature enamel painting, and movement assembly—all performed live. These demonstrations reveal not only technical precision but also the quiet drama behind each creation.

In addition, the Atelier d’Antoine offers a discovery workshop for those eager to learn more. This immersive session explores the evolving connection between women and horology. From the first women’s pocket watches to the invention of the Calibre 101, the workshop highlights how innovation has always responded to the changing desires of women.

After the hands-on experience, the Crystal Bar provides a final sensory note. Meanwhile, a dedicated screening room plays In the Making, a behind-the-scenes video series. These films reveal the inner workings of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s integrated manufacture and deepen the visitor’s understanding of the brand’s creative ecosystem.

Why the Evolution of Women’s Watches Matters Now

To put it plainly, women’s watches are not a niche. On the contrary, they stand as testaments to resistance, refinement, and reinvention. As women continue to rewrite the rules of power, beauty, and legacy, The Dream Shaper serves as a vital reminder. They have always had time on their side. Now, more than ever, they are shaping it.

Practical Info

Location: Zhangyuan W7, Lane 258, Maoming North Road, Shanghai
Dates: September 10 to 26, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily from 11 AM to 8 PM
Admission: Free with advance or on-site booking