Jaeger lecoultre reverso

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is an iconic watch since 1931, known for its rectangular case that slides and rotates to protect the crystal.

About this subject

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso was launched in 1931, during the height of Art Deco, and was designed to meet the needs of polo players in British India. These players often broke the crystals of their watches during matches. The ingenious solution was a case that slides and rotates 180 degrees, exposing a solid metal back that protects the dial. The elongated rectangular design, with clean, straight lines, became a symbol of sophistication and functionality.

Over the decades, the Reverso evolved from a sports watch into a style icon. From the 1990s onwards, Jaeger-LeCoultre introduced complications such as chronographs, perpetual calendars, and tourbillons. The case back is often personalized with engravings, enamels, or even a second dial, as in the Reverso Duo model. The case is made of steel or gold, and the movement is manufactured in-house by the brand, renowned for its high horology.

An interesting fact is that the reversing mechanism is manually actuated by a lever on the side of the case. The Reverso was also one of the first watches to offer a black dial, an innovation at the time. Today, the model is one of the most recognized in watchmaking worldwide, combining heritage, design, and technique. Its minimalist and timeless style makes it suitable for both formal and casual occasions, being a collector's item cherished by enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso created?

It was created in 1931 to protect the watch crystal during polo matches, as players often broke the dials. The case slides and rotates, exposing a metal back.

Does the Reverso have only one dial?

No. Models like the Reverso Duo have two dials, one on each side. Additionally, the back can be personalized with engravings, enamels, or other complications.

What is the typical case material of the Reverso?

The case is usually made of stainless steel or gold (yellow, rose, or white). Some special editions use platinum or titanium.