WORLDTEMPUS - 2 June 2011
To celebrate the 80th anniversary of the near-legendary Reverso model, Jaeger-LeCoultre has created a dedicated exhibition highlighting the extensive range of models produced throughout these eight decades and their associated history. This tribute is housed in a dedicated space adjacent to the permanent Heritage Gallery located at the Le Sentier factory and features a range of historical printed materials and pattern books alongside Reverso examples from 1931 to the present day. In addition to this main static exhibition, there are also a number of smaller presentations that are travelling the world and on show in major international cities.
The basic format of the Reverso has not significantly changed since its launch: a rectangular Art Deco-style case, a highly readable dial, and the ingenious case mechanism that allows one to "flip" it over to protect the dial. This is not to suggest, however, that the Reverso design has been locked into a staid format in the past: one wall-mounted cabinet containing more than 60 watches emphasizes how much the Reverso has managed to stay relevant even as fashions have come and gone over the last 80 years.
Create your Unique Reverso
Many of the early Reverso models were available with lacquer dials and, as witnessed by the unprecedented prices paid at Antiquorum's May auction, these have become highly sought-after by collectors. In addition, early clients were able to have many forms of personalization added to their purchases and recently this service has become available again.
The artisans who produce these unique designs work in a dedicated workshop slightly separated from the main manufacture. Here they find the peace and quiet they need to achieve the level of focus required to produce what are, quite literally in many cases, works of art.
The engravers can realize almost any design they desire, from straightforward initials to skeletonized movements - the only limit is the client's imagination. Engraving and enameling are ancient arts involving skills passed down through time, but establishing some of these skills in-house has required considerable time and effort. The enameling skills prevalent until after World War II were lost in the later half of the 20th century. Skills Revived
It was not until 1996 that Mikos Merczel was able to create a new dedicated department to reintroduce the process. Curved surfaces and the stresses and strains any Reverso watch experiences while being worn in daily life presented special challenges that took years to master, but now modern examples of his team's work are proudly displayed in the exhibition side by side with historical pieces.
Throughout the last 80 years, at every moment in history large and small, the Reverso has been there, a constant in an ever-changing world marking the passage of our lives. Long may it do so.
For any watch enthusiast the exhibition provides a fascinating insight into the world of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. Entrance to both the static exhibition at the manufacture in Le Sentier, Switzerland and the travelling exhibitions are by appointment only and can be booked through your local Jaeger-LeCoultre boutique.