Imagine a watch born on the polo field, destined to become a legend. That's the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. But what makes this iconic timepiece so enduring, nearly a century after its birth in 1931? It's more than just a watch; it's a statement, a piece of art, and a testament to ingenious design. The swivelling case, originally designed to protect the crystal during those intense polo matches, remains as captivating today as it was back then.
Jaeger-LeCoultre has masterfully expanded the Reverso family over the years, showcasing everything from artistic Métiers d’Art masterpieces to faithful reissues of the original 1931 model. Earlier this year, the Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds on a pink gold Milanese bracelet demonstrated the design's incredible versatility and staying power. Now, adding to the legacy is the new mid-size Reverso Classic Monoface Small Seconds, a stunning example of how to distill an icon down to its core essence while adding subtle, contemporary refinements.
At first glance, the Classic Monoface Small Seconds immediately evokes the spirit of the original Reverso. Its proportions are carefully considered, making it a versatile choice for any wrist. The polished stainless steel case, adorned with the signature triple gadroons (those elegant, parallel lines), measures 40.1mm by 24.4mm, with a thickness of just 7.56mm. This puts it squarely in the elegant mid-size category. To give you some context, the Gold-on-Milanese model, like many other Reverso Classics, comes in at 45.6mm x 27.4mm. This intermediate size strikes a perfect balance, making it a dressy option for men and a stylish, modern choice for women.
The construction of the mid-size Reverso Classic Monoface is a feat of engineering, comprising 50 individual components. Each element plays a crucial role in the smooth, satisfying slide-and-flip mechanism that defines the model. Holding it in your hand, you can feel the precision and refinement – a tangible reminder of Jaeger-LeCoultre's dedication to detail. The swivelling caseback is intentionally left blank, inviting personalization through engraving or lacquer, a tradition that dates back to the very first Reverso owners. What would you engrave on yours?
Beyond the size, the dial introduces a fresh, captivating design element. The center showcases a meticulously crafted guilloché pattern, inspired by the edges of a stack of coins. This intricate relief creates a mesmerizing play of light with every movement of the wrist. This textured pattern extends to the small seconds display at six o’clock, which is framed by vertically brushed tracks for the hours and minutes. The contrasting textures add depth, clarity, and visual interest. But here's where it gets controversial... some purists might argue that this new dial deviates too much from the original Art Deco aesthetic. What do you think?
The applied Arabic numerals and faceted dauphine hands maintain the Reverso's timeless charm. It's a subtle yet effective refresh, instantly recognizable as a classic Reverso yet thoroughly contemporary in its execution. And this is the part most people miss... the subtle details are what truly elevate this watch from being just another reissue to a modern masterpiece.
Powering the watch is the calibre 822, Jaeger-LeCoultre's hand-wound, tonneau-shaped movement. This movement was specifically designed to fit the Reverso's rectangular case. Comprising 108 components and measuring a mere 2.94mm thick, it operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and provides a 42-hour power reserve.
The new Reverso Classic Monoface Small Seconds, reference Q3868520, is paired with a supple black Casa Fagliano calfskin strap. It features an interchangeable system, allowing for effortless strap changes, and is secured with a polished steel pin buckle for a refined finish.
Elegant, versatile, and true to its heritage, the Reverso Classic Monoface Small Seconds joins the permanent collection and is priced at EUR 8,000, USD 8,000, or CHF 6,800. It is available now through Jaeger-LeCoultre boutiques and authorized retailers worldwide. For more information, visit jaeger-lecoultre.com.
Technical Specifications – Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Monoface Small Seconds
- Case: 24.4mm width x 40.1mm length x 7.56mm thick - stainless steel, polished with gadroons - signature swivelling Reverso construction (50 components) - closed back - 30m water-resistance
- Dial: New coin-stack guilloché pattern center and small seconds - vertically brushed hour and seconds tracks - printed Arabic numerals - dauphine hands in blued steel
- Movement: JLC calibre 822 - in-house - hand-wound - 108 components - 21,600 vibrations/hour - 42h power reserve - hours, minutes, small seconds
- Strap: Interchangeable Casa Fagliano black calfskin strap - stainless steel pin buckle
- Reference: Q3868520
- Availability: Immediate - permanent collection
- Price: EUR 8,000 / USD 8,000 / CHF 6,800
So, what are your thoughts on this new Reverso? Does the updated dial enhance the classic design, or does it stray too far from the original? And would you choose this mid-size version over the larger models? Share your opinions in the comments below!
