Jaeger-LeCoultre

AndrewD
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Thanks for the Memory

My wife’s regular work watch is the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Memory (Reference 255.08.82). This Reverso variant was launched in 1998 and discontinued in 2002, which is probably a fairly short life for a JLC model. As there is little discourse on the Reverso Memory, I thought I would post some pictures and comments.

The Memory is housed in the mid-sized Classic case (38.7x23.05mm), which is a nice size for a ladies wrist given current trends. This example has a stainless steel polished case and bracelet with an invisible double locking clasp. There are sapphire crystals on both faces and the watch is not water resistant. A rectangular push-piece protrudes below the crown.

The watch houses the Calibre 862 which is 3.5mm thick, contains 146 parts and has 23 jewels. The balance beats at 21,600vph (3Hz) and the calibre has a 50 hour power reserve and a hacking second display. The movement was executed by Design Engineer Philippe Vandel.

The primary face is silvered with black transferred Arabic numerals and has a large circular second display at the 6 o’clock position. All three hands are blued and inlaid with luminous paint. The reverse side displays the reason for this models designation, a flyback minute counter. This face is black with a sun burst guilloche pattern and a white hand, also with luminous inlay.

So what do we like about the Reverso Memory? For me it is the fact that it houses an uncommon complication and is a relatively rare model. For my wife, who tolerates my hobby but is not a collector, it is the clearly visible second hand that she uses in the workplace and the overall appearance of the watch on bracelet which is very versatile and rather stylish.

The other features of note are the three different guilloche patterns on the two faces and the blued hands on the primary dial which provide pleasing visual variety. The hacking second hand makes it easy to accurately set the time. The white hand of the minute counter contrasts with the black dial, facilitating rapid and accurate reading of elapsed time. The counter is useful for a variety of timing activities from parking meters to telephone calls.

Overall an interesting addition to the tapestry of the Reverso line.

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