BY HARLAN CHAPMAN-GREEN
Jaeger-LeCoultre has been busy at work this past year, busy working on the Reverso collection (unfortunately not introducing any proper sporting models like it used to make yet). This next watch introduces a complication that Jaeger-LeCoultre has never put into a Reverso watch before, which is surprising as the Reverso has held all manner of complications from chronographs and tourbillons to repeaters.
The case is made of 18k pink gold and measures 49.4mm x 29.9mm, and features the classical Reverso design we all know and love. That is, straight lines down the edges of the case, beautifully rounded case sides and Art Deco lines flowing horizontally along the top and bottom of the case.
On the time dial are even more Art Deco designs, including elements such as the train track inspired minutes scale and the Art Deco hour markers. The large date is framed with pink gold, and there’s a pretty moonphase at 6 O’clock, also, dauphine hands, jus’ sayin’. This is all excellent stuff and would be special on its own. However, on the other side of the case is the new bit.
The new part is the introduction of a jumping hours display. On the caseback is a beautifully simplistic display of the information found on the dial side. An hour indicator shows the number of the hours. Below is a cleverly integrated day/night indicator with the JL logo occupying half of the display. Below that is a minutes counter disk. This may not seem particularly noteworthy, or maybe you had something else in mind, but you must remember that complications are Jaeger-LeCoultre’s department of speciality. They’ve done nearly everything. Also, observe the amount of care and attention that went into decorating this area. All of the lines and layers of engraving have been applied by hand, no machinery required. That takes time and skill and is a true demonstration of the ability of Swiss watchmakers.
Inside the case is the manually-wound calibre 826. With a 42-hour power reserve, it is a classical movement through and through. Although you can’t see, you can rest assured that it’s been decorated to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s exacting standards.
Sadly, only 190 of these will be made, and they are only available through boutiques for the price of €39,700.
Visit Jaeger-LeCoultre here.
