Jaeger lecoultre reverso

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is an iconic watch with a reversible case, created in 1931 to protect the crystal during polo matches.

About this subject

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso was born from a challenge: British officers in India needed a watch that could withstand polo impacts. In 1931, designer René-Alfred Chauvot patented the swiveling case mechanism, allowing the dial to be hidden and the back exposed. The rectangular silhouette and Art Deco lines quickly made it a symbol of elegance. Originally hand-wound, the Reverso evolved into chronographs, tourbillons, and complications. Its reverse side often features personalized engravings, enamel, or dual time zones. Production halted during World War II, resumed in the 1970s with quartz movements, but in 1994 the Grand Reverso collection revived the mechanical spirit. Today, the model is produced at JLC's factory in Le Sentier, Switzerland, with calibers 822 or 847. Famous wearers include the Duke of Windsor and actor Roger Moore. The case typically measures 45.6 x 27.4 mm, thickness 10 mm, in steel or gold. The sunburst dial, dauphine hands, and applied indices maintain the classic style. The Reverso is one of the few watches whose design has remained virtually unchanged for nine decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the Reverso created with a reversible case?

The reversible case was designed to protect the watch crystal during polo matches, a sport played by British officers in India who commissioned the model.

Is the Reverso still produced with a mechanical movement?

Yes, Jaeger-LeCoultre manufactures the Reverso with mechanical movements, hand-wound or automatic, such as calibers 822 and 847, maintaining Swiss watchmaking tradition.

What are the most common materials for the Reverso?

Traditional materials are stainless steel and yellow or rose gold. Special editions use platinum, titanium, or forged carbon.