JLC Reverso Day-Night

I was able to borrow a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Day-Night (Ref. 270.85.4) for a review.

The watch is almost 30 years old, but it is in a fabulous condition, possibly because it has only ever been used on a few special occasions.

The Reverso was born in 1931 in response to a challenge: to protect the glass in a polo match. Since then, it has transcended much further, to become one of the most recognizable watches in the world.

It comes in a stainless steel case that is 25.5 mm wide by 42.9 mm long and just 9 mm thick.

Its petite size surprises once on the wrist. It wears larger due to its rectangular shape, the fine lateral framing and the fabulous continuity between the lugs and the strap.

The “mental image” of the Reverso is that of a rectangular timepiece. Up close, however, it's a spectacle of curves, accentuated by the polished finish.

At first glance, there is nothing to indicate that we are dealing with a rotating watch, or indeed a reversible one in this case. The tolerances are very precise, yet turning it is extremely easy.

The signed crown is small and press-fit. Being a watch with a manual winding caliber, it will have to be used often. It conveys finesse and precision.

Above the crown we see a small push button to advance the hour hand of the rear dial (the black one) with the second time zone.

The case back is brushed and signed.

The two dials combine multiple finishes and offer distinct but synchronized functions. The silver one (the front one) has a small seconds sub-register and the black one (the one for the second time zone) has a 24-hour indicator in the same position.

It is powered by manufacture caliber JLC 854, a fine movement just 3.8 mm thick which consists of 160 parts. It oscillates at 21,600 bph (3 Hz), has 19 jewels and offers 42 hours of power reserve. Like all the brand's manufacture calibers, it passes the JLC "1,000 hour test".

The Reverso is a stately timepiece for special occasions, but embellished as it is with this particular ostrich leather strap, it would not look out of place on any casual occasion.

The Reverso thoroughly deserves its iconic status.

Full article here.