Jaeger-LeCoultre Reinterpret The Reverso Classic Monoface Small…

Few timepieces have captured the spirit of enduring design as profoundly as the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso.

Originally created in 1931 to withstand the sporting rigours of polo, the Reverso’s ingenious swivelling case soon transcended its athletic origins to become an icon of Art Deco design. With its instantly recognisable geometry and dual personality, it remains one of the most versatile watches of all time.

The genesis of the Reverso is rooted in the polo fields of colonial India, where British Army officers challenged watchmakers to create a wristwatch resilient enough to endure the fast-paced, mallet-swinging game. The solution — a case that could be flipped to shield the dial from impact — was as practical as it was elegant.

Adopted swiftly by tastemakers and aesthetes beyond the sporting world, the Reverso’s distinctive lines and patented double-sided case (CH159982) elevated it into a cultural symbol. Whether worn by men or women, its Art Deco proportions have remained virtually unchanged, embodying both continuity and adaptability for nearly a century.

This latest evolution sees the Reverso Classic Monoface Small Seconds adorned with a newly developed guilloché motif. Inspired by the ridged texture of stacked coins, the intricate pattern enlivens both the central dial and small seconds sub-register. Bold Arabic numerals and vertically brushed hour tracks further enhance the aesthetic, creating a striking interplay of light and texture.

Encased in polished stainless steel, the watch strikes a careful balance between vintage inspiration and contemporary refinement. Its proportions — 40.1 x 24.4 mm with a svelte 7.56 mm profile — echo those of the 1931 original, ensuring a comfortable presence on any wrist. The blank reverse caseback, true to the Monoface tradition, invites personalisation through engraving or lacquer, offering a canvas for individual expression.

At its core beats the manually wound Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 822, a slender movement with a 42-hour power reserve. Testament to the maison’s dedication to fine watchmaking, it combines reliability with refined craftsmanship.

Completing the ensemble is an interchangeable black calfskin strap, crafted by the renowned Argentinian polo bootmaker Casa Fagliano — a fitting tribute to the Reverso’s sporting heritage.

This new chapter in the Reverso’s story demonstrates Jaeger-LeCoultre’s rare ability to innovate while respecting tradition. Sporty yet elegant, masculine yet feminine, classic yet contemporary — the Reverso remains a true horological chameleon, as relevant today as it was in 1931.

Technical Specifications:

Reverso Classic Monoface Small Seconds (Ref. Q3868520)