Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Monoface

The Reverso, Jaeger-LeCoultre's most distinctive watch, certainly has an impressive pedigree. Essentially one of the first sports watches, the Reverso combined utility with a sleek and elegant Art Deco exterior that has become an icon of horological design. But in the case of the Reverso, looks deceive. Though the Reverso appears at first glance to be a dress watch, it owes its existence to the gentlemanly sport of polo. While touring India in the early 1930s, Swiss businessman César de Trey met a British polo player who'd just cracked the crystal of his watch on the field. De Trey returned to Switzerland with an idea already taking root in his head, which he then discussed with Jacques-David LeCoultre: what if a watch could be made with a case that could be reversed? The patent was issued in 1931, and the first Reverso that followed measured 38mm in length and 24mm in width. Jaeger-LeCoultre also released the Reverso in gold and decorated the case back with engravings or even miniatures. But with changing tastes in the 1970s — for round watches as well as quartz movements — Jaeger-LeCoultre ceased production of the Reverso. The model lay dormant for years until its triumphant re-issue in 1982. While those watches featured quartz movements, their success paved the way for the Reverso, which has since returned to its former tentpole status within the broader JLC lineup. The particular Reverso we have here is a Classique, measuring 24mm in diameter and featuring the signature reversible case finished in stainless steel, a sapphire crystal, a signed crown, and a satin silver dial with printed ‘Arabic’ indices, with a matching 'sword' handset. Powered by Jaeger-LeCoultre's Calibre 822 manual-winding movement, it is paired with a five-link stainless steel bracelet that precisely matches the case's Deco design. Measuring in with a 40mm lug to lug distance, this piece remains suitable for virtually any wrist. The unadorned caseback is ready for engraving and personalization. You’d be hard pressed to tell that this attractive model isn’t in fact a vintage find — but that’s sort of the point! In terms of elegant design and horological prowess, this watch punches way above its weight class and simply cannot be overlooked.