Introduced in 2023, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 is an exceptional timepiece uniting the highest watchmaking expertise with intricate and artistic decoration.
Visually enthralling to observe as it pirouettes around its twin axes, the structure of the Gyrotourbillon is highly complex: with a total of 123 components, it comprises one ultra-light titanium cage and a peripheral carriage mounted on ball-bearings; these two elements turn perpendicularly to each other at different speeds. The inner tourbillon cage rotates 360 degrees every 16 seconds and the peripheral carriage makes a full rotation once per minute; this peripheral carriage also provides a small seconds function, indicating the seconds on a ring that encircles the tourbillon aperture.
A closer look reveals a greyed semi-spherical balance spring beating at the heart of the mechanism, as well as the distinctive double-anchor shape of a Gyrolab balance ‘wheel’ – both elements paying testament to Jaeger- LeCoultre’s tireless pursuit of greater precision and mechanical efficiency. In this quest, the Manufacture’s engineers have created balance springs in several different forms over the years and this hemispherical shape, perfectly adapted to the hollow sphere at the heart of the Gyrotourbillon add aesthetic refinement as well as being highly efficient. The double-anchor shape of the Gyrolab was designed to reduce air friction and thus further enhance timekeeping accuracy.
Rather than being held in place by a conventional bridge, the tourbillon mechanism is supported by a ring of ball bearings. As a result, this flying Gyrotourbillon appears to be floating in the space between the front and back dials of the Reverso, with no apparent means of support. The effect is amplified by the light reflected from the mirror-like surface of a polished blue lacquer disc positioned on the supporting cradle of the watch directly beneath the tourbillon aperture.
Anchoring the colour palette of the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 and creating a rich contrast with the solid white gold case, bridges and decorative plates, shiny dark blue lacquer also decorates the front and reverse dials of the watch. With its double-sided, Duoface movement, this Reverso offers two distinct personalities. On the front dial, in a subtle allusion to the geometric patterns of Art Deco that determined the original Reverso design, a lattice of fine lines matches the colour of the precious metal case. The cool, silvery tones of the white gold contrast with the blue lacquer of the decorative plates and bridges, complementing the deep blue gradient lacquer of the front dial.
On the reverse dial, blue lacquer has been applied to the fine tracery of the skeletonised hours-minutes ring and its supporting bridges, highlighting the airy aesthetic and contrasting with the warm tones of various movement components and the soft texture of the micro-blasting. The decoration on the reverse dial is a fascinating marriage of technology and tradition, with laser skeletonisation complemented by hand chamfering and hand-applied lacquer – affirming Jaeger-LeCoultre’s deep commitment to tradition while constantly seeking innovative approaches to the art and science of horology.
Crafted for true connoisseurs of art and mechanics, the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 is a noble expression of the 180 skills brought together under one roof at the Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre – a remarkable collaboration between watchmakers and artisans who are at the peak of their crafts.
Technical Specifications:
REVERSO HYBRIS ARTISTICA CALIBRE 179
Case: White gold (18k, 750/1000)
Dimensions: 51.1 x 31 mm x 13.63 mm thick
Calibre: Manually-wound Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 179
Functions: Hours and Minutes on both dials; second time zone with 24-hour indicator on reverse dial, Gyrotourbillon (visible on both front and reverse dials)
Power Reserve: 40 hours
Front dial: Blue lacquer
Back dial: Skeletonised, coated with blue lacquer
Water resistance: 30m
Strap: Blue alligator leather
Reference: Q39434E1
Limited edition of 10 pieces
For more information please visit Jaeger-LeCoultre