Jaeger-LeCoultre: Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds Rose Gold

Created in 1931, the Reverso was designed to meet the demands of the newly fashionable ‘sporting gentleman’. A challenge was set by polo-playing military officers in India during the British Raj of 1858-1947 to create a watch that could withstand the rigours of the polo field. The Reverso was the answer – a masterful integration of form and function. Quickly adopted by tastemakers from all walks of life, the Reverso soon transcended its original sporting purpose as new variations appeared – for both men and women. However, its iconic double-sided case and distinctive Art Deco lines have remained constant, making the Reverso one of the world’s most recognisable wristwatches.

Over the decades, many variations of the Reverso have been created, both stylistically and mechanically, without ever compromising its identity. Today, Jaeger-LeCoultre presents a new interpretation of the Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds with a Milanese link bracelet, 18K rose gold case and grained dial, an expression of the stylistic evolution of the Reverso with vintage charm and modern style.

The Milanese link is a dense, flat metal weave made from two intertwined metal threads, creating a double layer of small interlocking links. Crafting the bracelet requires no less than 16 meters of pink gold threads, which, once assembled, form a fabric-like structure known as pezza. To ensure maximum flexibility, the process must be carried out without interruption. The final steps involve stamping the links to their precise dimensions and hand- soldering each side, link by link. Smooth, flexible, and free of pins, this construction ensures exceptional durability. 

On the new pink gold Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds, the link bracelet adds a dash of vintage chic to the pared-down Reverso Tribute dial aesthetic and all-pink golden colour palette of the watch. Its slim profile perfectly complements the sleek lines of the 7.56 mm-thick Reverso case and the lug attachment has been slightly modified so that the bracelet appears to be integrated.

This new Reverso is adorned with a golden-coloured dial featuring a delicate textured finish obtained by several stamping operations. The finely grained dial provides a counterpoint to the polished shine of the case and bracelet links. The polished finish of the 18k pink gold integrated buckle complements the shiny surface of the links, enhancing the bracelet’s cohesive elegance.

When the case is turned over, the metal caseback enhances the jewellery look of the watch, whether left blank or personalised with an engraving or lacquered decoration. On the wrist, the bracelet feels smooth, soft and sinuous – a perfect fit thanks to the adjustable sliding clasp and beautifully balanced thanks to the weight of the pink gold. 

The signature iconography of the Reverso Tribute dial recalls the purity of the 1931 original Reverso, with the hours marked by applied indexes rather than numerals. Their elongated shape and faceted profile add visual depth and echo the form of the Dauphine hands. The circular track of the small seconds display at six o’clock provides a counterpoint to the linear geometry of the dial and case. 

The Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds is powered by the hand-wound Calibre 822, which offers a power reserve of 42 hours. The movement, which is shaped to echo the lines of the rectangular case, was designed, produced and assembled entirely in-house.  (Price €. 45,200)