The Reverso Line For Jaeger LeCoultre

The Reverso Line For Jaeger LeCoultre

Adrienne Faurote
By Adrienne Faurote December 12, 2011

The Reverso watch line has been an iconic image of Art Deco style for Jaeger LeCoultre since its inception of the first Reverso in 1931. It is an accomplishment for a brand to be successful for such a long time; it is even more impressive that the Reverso’s style is still as popular and acclaimed today as it was in the 30’s.

For the 80th anniversary of the original watch, Jaeger LeCoultre created The Reverso Répétition Minutes à Rideau, which takes one of the most prestigious watch complications in the minute repeater, and redefines the function into a completely unique presentation – reaffirming the brands position in the upper echelons of horological innovation. One side of the 18K white gold Rideau has an openworked dial exhibiting the minute repeater mechanism. This face is concealed by a beautifully crafted white gold curtain featuring 16 decorative slates. Pulling this curtain across not only reveals the dial, but activates the minute repeater much like the start of an orchestra’s performance.

As two gongs chime out to announce the hours, quarter-hours and minutes, the curtain closes on the dial using a remarkable 270 parts working in tandem to operate this mechanism.

On the reverse side of the watch is another openworked dial, which shows the bridge work and displays the time. While the curtain can still be adjusted on this side of the timepiece, it will not activate the minute repeater allowing for regular use. The mechanical manually-wound movement is comprised of 340 parts and 35 jewels with a 35-hour power reserve.

The watch is limited to only 75 pieces in the world and has a current retail value of $302,000.