Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso

Few watches can claim to have invented an entire category. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is one of them.

Introduced in 1931, the Reverso was conceived not as a dress watch, but as a solution to a practical problem. While visiting India, Swiss businessman César de Trey encountered British polo players frustrated by shattered watch crystals during matches. Working alongside Jacques-David LeCoultre and designer Alfred Chauvot, the answer emerged in the form of a reversible case that could be flipped over to protect the dial during play. It was one of the earliest purpose-built sports watches—and, by happy coincidence, one of the most enduring examples of Art Deco design ever created.

Nearly a century later, the Reverso remains instantly recognizable. This example is crafted in 18K yellow gold and features a 20.5mm reversible case with an unengraved closed caseback. The front dial embraces the collection's timeless aesthetic with Arabic numerals, a railroad minute track, and blued hands, preserving the elegant proportions that have defined the model since its introduction.

The watch is fitted to an alligator leather strap secured by a signed Jaeger-LeCoultre deployant clasp, a pairing that complements the warmth of the yellow gold case while remaining faithful to the Reverso's refined character. It is accompanied by its original inner and outer presentation boxes, period pamphlets, and an additional strap, offering a near complete package that enhances both its collectibility and versatility.

The Reverso has evolved into countless variations over the decades, from simple time-only models to some of the most technically ambitious complications in modern watchmaking. Yet the original formula remains remarkably difficult to improve upon. Its ingenious reversible case, unmistakable silhouette, and enduring elegance have earned it a place among the handful of watches that transcend trends, generations, and changing tastes. Nearly one hundred years after its debut, the Reverso remains as relevant as ever—a true icon of twentieth-century design and one of Jaeger-LeCoultre's defining achievements.

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.

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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.