Jaeger-LeCoultre Unveils First Reverso Tribute Watch For 90th Anniversary In 2021

The year 2021 may usher in hopes of new times and happier moments. For Jaeger-LeCoultre, those moments include the 90^thbirthday of the brand’s iconic Reverso watch. It was on March 4, 1931 that the Reverso was born. As 2021 will be an anniversary year for the icon, Jaeger-LeCoultre is pulling out all the stops for some new creations – the first of which is the Reverso Tribute Duoface Fagliano Limited tribute watch with a burgundy dial and pink gold case.

The legendary Reverso watch was created in response to request from polo players for the brand to build a timepiece whose crystal wouldn’t break in play. The result was a square watch that slides out of the watch holder, reverses and slides back in so that the dial and crystal are now face down and protected, while the metal caseback is seen on the wrist. The ingenious patented concept took the polo world by storm but also ignited a flame around the world with its art deco inspired look perfect for men and women.

Since its birth, the Reverso has always been a part of  the Swiss watch brand’s collections, evolving over time, but always keeping the spirit of the original, highly coveted watch. Thanks to its square shape, Art Deco style and clean lines – not to mention the desirable flip-over case — the Reverso is one of the most immediately identifiable watches in the world.

The newest piece recalls the original Reverso watches but offers some updated features. For instance, the very first Reverso watches were offered in colors, including red. Now, Jaeger-LeCoultre modernizes the red and creates a burgundy dial that is created of layers and layers of lacquer that offer a great sheen. Additionally, while the early watches had flat markers, the markers on the new tribute watch are applied and raised.

Lastly, instead of boasting a metal back when in the reverse position, this watch offers the dual-time zone complication on the reverse dial in an inset opaline dial surrounded by a hand-guilloche Clous de Paris motif. This duo-dial concept dates back to the 1990’s when Jaeger-LeCoultre released the Duoface series that showcased two contrasting dials to display two different time zones. The watch is powered by the hand-wound Caliber 854A/2 mechanical movement created in house by Jaeger-LeCoultre’s master watchmakers. IN addition to offering dual time zones and day/night indication, the watch is chocked with 42 hours of power reserve.

Another aspect of the tribute piece that makes it contemporary is the hand-made strap crafted by the globally renowned Argentinian maker of polo boots, Casa Fagliano. The strap is created using cordovan leather and canvas that recall the boots the brand makes for summer polo. Each strap is cut and stitched by hand and each requires about six hours of intense and meticulous work. The hand-made straps are color-coordinated with the burgundy dial.  Just 190 pieces of the Reverso Tribute Duoface Fagliano Limited watch will be made. They are a Jaeger-LeCoultre boutique exclusive, with each retailing for $23,900.

According to Catherine Renier, CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre, the new year will be filled with more Reverso highlights. “Reverso is highly recognizable and completely unique. It is a timepiece that has lasted through the years with very minor adjustments but always reinventing itself in terms of sophistication and complexity. This watch kicks off the  celebration and is a symbol of the history of the Reverso,” she says. “We will come next with high complications and inspirations from our Metiers d’Arts for both men and women.”

She also notes that in addition to the new watches, the brand will reveal some new partnerships and collaborations that will provide a complete Reverso message about its uniqueness and creativity. “Covid or not, Reverso will prevail,” she says.