This 18 karat gold 'day night' Reverso by Jaeger-LeCoultre is perhaps one of the most iconic watch designs of the 20th Century. The watch which in this iteration features dual faces, is accompanied by its original boxes, user manuals and papers and what is likely its original crocodile leather band with deployment clasp. The 18 karat gold casing houses on one side a dial featuring Arabic numbers and a second hand, the alternate side featuring batons and Arabic numbers again with a second hand. The history of the Reverso dates back to the Art Deco period with polo players needing a watch that could withstand the knocks of a polo mallet. A watch was created that could be flipped over to protect the crystal from being smashed during games. More recent editions such as this 'day night' iteration feature two faces, allowing the user to have their timepiece set to two different timezones. The piece is working and winding well, however has not been recently serviced or tested for accuracy. The case and deployment clasp show signs of wear in the form of scratches and abrasions, indicating the piece has not been polished, however this is to be expected and does not detract from the overall look and appearance. The band of the watch is the only element that could require updating as it is becoming worn and shows signs of age. An absolutely stellar example of the iconic Reverso by Jaeger-LeCoultre.
Date - circa 1999 (papers from purchase dated 26/02/1999)
Reference - 270.1.54
Case Number - 1908599
Dimensions - 25mm case
Movement - mechanical wind with 45 hour power reserve
Case - 18 karat yellow gold
Deployment Clasp - original Jaeger-LeCoultre 18kt gold
Band - brown crocodile leather branded Jaeger-LeCoultre
Total weight of piece - 84.60 grams including strap and deployment clasp