The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is one of the most classic watches out there still being made today. Easily up there in some top 10 list, if one was ever to be established (note to self – work on top 10 classic watches list). Since its creation way back when (maybe the 1930s) it has been an iconic watch for Jaeger-LeCoultre. One of the most simple and classic, but still interesting Reverso models being sold today is the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Duo. The original Reverso watches did not have dual faces. One side was metal to protect the watch during polo matches. When Jaeger-LeCoultre really revived the Reverso watch, they decided to put the other side of the watch to good use, and give the timepiece two faces.
As such, you can flip around the watch to get another side. In this instance each side has a different watch face design, each showing its own time. The internal manually wound mechanical movement powers both faces, that each give a different time. The images you see are for display purposes, showing you both watch faces, when you wear the watch you see just one, not both side by side as pictured. Available in both steel and gold, the watch case is modest in size by today’ standards, but still a true classic. Size is just 26mm wide by 42mm tall. Even with two sides the case is just 9.5mm thick.
The dark gray face has two timezones, with the lower dial showing the time in 24 hour format. Switch to the other face and you get that real classic Reverso look with the square dial, guilloche engraved face, and subsidiary seconds dial. Quite elegant and masculine in my opinion. The watch is available on an excellent metal bracelet or a brown alligator strap. The crystal is of course sapphire. It is hard not to be attracted to the timeless design and rich heritage of the Jaeger-LeCoultre watch brand (of the finest Swiss luxury brands out there). If you are looking for a classic with modern usefulness or a trying to add “must have” watches to your collection the Reverso Duo is a well qualified choice. Price isn’t cheap, but neither is the quality in the $6,000 – $9,000 range (higher for gold). For those who want larger watches or those with additional levels of complications, the Reverso line has you covered.