A solid 18 carat yellow gold Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. Perhaps the most remarkable of all watch cases ever made, this masterpiece in question came to fruition based on a simple request: In 1930, businessman César de Trey was challenged to find a way to protect the glass of a watch for polo players during matches. de Trey’s idea was inspired – a case that could be rotated, shielding the delicate crystal covered dial. He approached his friend Jacques-David LeCoultre to produce the watch and the pair engaged René-Alfred Chauvot to design it. From this moment the “Reverso” was born.

The watch has been a favorite of Royals, Polo players and the world’s upwardly mobile since its inception in 1931. Spending a minute with it in the hands and on the wrist, it is very easy to see why. One can always judge a watch by its longevity. This watch was again the star of the show for Jaeger-LeCoultre at their booth at Watches & Wonders in Geneva. 

This example is a very rare mechanical smaller, ladies size from the 1990s. The dial chosen to sit atop the movement is actually a classic “boiler gauge” style layout that was seen on a number of the original watches from the 1930’s. The minute track sits in the center, giving it that gauge look. The proportions overall are beautiful. The very simple blued steel hands, a nod to traditional watch making, are the perfect way to tell the time as it passes by.

There have been more than 50 calibers that have been developed for the Reverso range over the years. From quartz models, all the way through to the most complicated dual time pieces. This example features the classic mechanical 822 movement. JLC, aside from being a wonderful watchmaker, were a movement maker to many of their competitors over the years. Their ebauches proved worthy platforms for many other watch brands to use. The movement that resides in this watch, needless to say, is exemplary. It is also more unusual for a watch from this period to be fitted with the mechanical movements as, by this time, a number had been switched over to quartz.

The condition of the watch overall is very good. It has some light scratches, but again, as we explore to look for, it remains unpolished. The top of the case has achieved na amazing patina to it, which we have decided to leave. This is the best part of thirty years of remaining unworn to achieve this look. The dial is perfect throughout, and the case back once flipped is also good with no signs of prior engraving or heavy deep scratches.  All of the relevant hallmarks and makers marks are on the underside of the case, and all of the reference numbers and serial numbers are visible on the case back.

Overall, this is a stunning watch that does not look out of place on anyone's wrist today.  A true testament to the original watch rapidly approaching its centenary. The watch is presented with its original papers and a JLC box. A rare watch that stands out as one of the all-time classic wristwatches ever produced.