Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso

The Reverso, Jaeger-LeCoultre's most recognizable creation, carries a pedigree few timepieces can rival.

Conceived as one of the very first true sports watches, it fused utility with the sleek, geometric lines of Art Deco design—an aesthetic that has since become iconic. Yet appearances deceive. What appears to be a refined dress watch was, in fact, born on the rugged polo fields of British India. In the early 1930s, Swiss businessman César de Trey witnessed a player shatter his watch during a match. Inspired, he returned to Switzerland and partnered with Jacques-David LeCoultre to develop a case that could flip over to protect its crystal.

By 1931, the ingenious patent was secured, and the first Reverso arrived: a rectangular case measuring 38mm by 24mm, available even in gold with case backs engraved or painted with miniature scenes. But changing tastes in the 1970s—favoring round cases and quartz technology—brought production to a halt. It wasn't until a 1982 revival, initially with quartz movements, that the Reverso regained momentum, eventually reclaiming its status as a cornerstone of the Jaeger-LeCoultre collection.

The example offered here is a reference 260.8.08, measuring 20mm by 33mm, with the signature reversible steel case, sapphire crystal, signed crown, and light blue satin dial accented by Art Deco-style Arabic numerals and matching sword hands. Powered by a quartz movement and paired with a black alligator strap, it channels all the charm of a vintage piece while offering modern dependability.

Slightly smaller than the typical Reverso, it wears comfortably on nearly any wrist. Elegant, practical, and steeped in history, this watch is a reminder that true design icons never lose their relevance.

Few watchmaking concerns are as storied as Jaeger-LeCoultre. Though the maison is not technically a member of the “Holy Trinity” of Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin, one could easily make the argument that it should be: After all, it was JLC that supplied movements to Patek from the beginning of the 20th century through the early 30s.

Founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoutlre in Le Sentier, Switzerland, the firm became the Jaeger-LeCoultre we know today when it merged with Parisian watchmaker Edmond Jaeger’s business in 1937. The two horological concerns collaborated on numerous projects before cementing their partnership, the most important of which was no doubt the Reverso. A sport watch with a reversible case, this ingenious timepiece was designed to offer protection to the watch dial — when engaged in sport or otherwise dangerous activity, the wearer would simply flip the case over, exposing its back to the world, rather than the vulnerable crystal.

But the Reverso is far from the only significant timepiece brought to market by JLC: The firm also produced the world’s thinnest pocket watch in 1907, powered by the Caliber 145. In 1929, the maison released the Caliber 101, still today the smallest mechanical movement. (Queen Elizabeth II wore a Caliber 101-equipped wristwatch to her coronation in 1953.) And perhaps no other watchmaker is world-renowned for their production of a clock in the way that JLC is famous for the Atmos. Invented by Jean-Léon Reutter, it’s powered by miniscule changes in atmospheric pressure — Edmon Jaeger acquired the patent and licensed it beginning in 1936. The Atmos is still produced in numerous forms today, and remains the Swiss government’s foremost diplomatic gift.

From classic, near-centuries old designs like the Reverso and the Atmos to modern über-complications such as the brilliant Master Gyrotourbillon, Jaeger-LeCoultre remains on the cutting edge of horological technology nearly two centuries after its founding.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a two-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.