Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra Thin “Tribute to 1931” Limited Edition Reference Q2782521

Few timepieces have as rich of a history comparable to the Reverso. In 1927, Ceasar De Trey founded Hermetica S.A., which would later be rebranded Société Spécialités Horlogères. This company was responsible not only for The Reverso, but The Basculante, Movado Ermeto Purse Watch and various other horological instruments that introduced unique functionality for the consumer. Within a decade, De Trey's company would become fully associated with the Jaeger-LeCoultre S.A. Inspired by the sport lifestyle, De Trey brought the idea of a reversible timepiece to the attention of Jacques-David LeCoultre and Jaeger S.A. Shortly after, a French designer/engineer by the name Rene-Alfred Chauvot was commissioned to design the case. Several manufacturers had their reversible watches during the 30s such as Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, Hamilton, Tavannes and others.

However, it is Jaeger-LeCoultre that has carried on the tradition of this legendary design nearly a century later. This particular example is an 18K rose gold model dated to circa 2011. It was designed with a subtle nod to the earliest examples that are embedded in collectors’ minds from 20th century advertisements. Void of any manufacturer’s branding on the dial, but instead the model name “Reverso”, it is a tasteful understated timepiece that doesn’t communicate in the same fashion most limited edition watches will. Instead, it bears the Arabic numerals 12 and 6, complemented with baton hour markers which are also painted gold. In the minimalist nature it features no sundial, but instead faceted sword hands.

The same model became a “mogul model” when it was spotted on the wrist of Jay-Z in 2012 during a Suit & Tie performance at Carnegie Hall. It was famously delivered to his residence by Stephen Pulvirent of Rime & Reason and former HODINKEE alumni. Additionally, the model was featured on the cover of The Jaeger-LeCoultre WatchTime Special Issue. 

This model is a limited edition of 500 (numbered at 377) with a case number of 2756307. The case dimensions are 46.6mm x 27.5mm. It is powered by the ultra thin calibre 822 movement, with a 45 hour power reserve. The watch comes with its original 18K signed buckle and a 20mm leather strap.by Eichmüller.

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