JLC Geophysic True Second & Reverso TT1931 Review

KMII · 2016-01-16T09:31:55Z

KMII reviews modern JLC models: Geophysic True Second, Reverso TT1931. Discover insights on design, wearability, and movement aesthetics from a collector's perspective.

KMII

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

24 replies5204 views3 photos

KMII shares his impressions from a visit to a Jaeger-LeCoultre boutique, focusing on three contemporary models: the Geophysic True Second, the Reverso TT1931, and the 'other' Geophysic. His post offers a collector's perspective on their design, wearability, and the appeal of their complications, inviting discussion on modern JLC offerings.

The same trip downtown that had me check out some older JLC models (different post) also resulted in a quick detour to the JLC Boutique, to see how some of the newer models fit. By this point I was a bit pressed for time, so it is three pieces (with modest picture quality) again, rather than a slightly larger number that I would have actually liked to try.

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff, I have to say. While I get my education here, hence probaby know more than your average customer, they were well prepared for all kinds of questions and I also liked the Geophysic sales support material they had. Did not walk out with one of the beauties yet but these would definitely be contenders for the first modern JLC

So without further ado. The first one, the piece I really wanted to try most, was the Geophysic True Second. I find the complication intellectually appealing to start. Then there is the well chosen case size, the grainy dial (which looks good both on pictures and in real life), the charming luminous dots...

To my surprise they still had a Reverso TT1931. A really cool piece. I also have to say it sat on my wrist a lot more snugly than the Reverso Gran Sport, and I felt the proportions to be spot on. How to resist in the medium term...

Last of the three (and with a truly terrible pic - sadly I only noticed this when back at home), the 'other' Geophysic. Have to say that the two screws that bugged me on pictures are a bit less disturbing in real life but why they cannot align them beats me. That dial, though - magical.

So, the choice is larger, the wish list longer. At least (apart from the TT1931) these are not limited and will hopefully still be available next year. So, none the wiser, and none taken off the wish list

Key Points from the Discussion

The Geophysic True Second is praised for its intellectually appealing complication, well-chosen case size, grainy dial, and charming luminous dots.
The Reverso TT1931 is highlighted for its cool aesthetic and superior fit on the wrist compared to the Reverso Gran Sport, with proportions considered spot on.
The misalignment of screws on the 'other' Geophysic is a minor aesthetic concern, though less noticeable in person than in photos, and is attributed to manufacturing challenges at a tiny scale.
Achieving perfect screw alignment is considered difficult, if not impossible, in mass production, even for brands like Rolex, due to manufacturing tolerances and torque applied during assembly.
The new movement in the Geophysic models, featuring a solid gold rotor, deadbeat seconds, and a new balance wheel, is appreciated for its technical advancements.
Some collectors express reservations about the aesthetic of the new rotor, specifically its angular 'JL' logo, the direction of its striping, and its prominent gold color, feeling it detracts from traditional elegance.

The Discussion

KMII

Jan 16, 2016

Nor are the other members here Lots to like, what can I say!

KMII

Jan 16, 2016

Quite the opposite And it's not like anyone is dragging me down that road against my will

skyeriding

Jan 16, 2016

I can't speak for all, but my opinion on it is that it's very (or impossible?) to get perfect alignment made. Even Rolex with their incredible mass production can't even get something as big as their screwed-down crowns aligned (ok I don't know about today. Have they gotten it yet?)! Also, Hublot bezel screws.......AP doesn't count since they aren't technically"screws" I'd imagine that manufacturing screws in batches would have no orientation check on the threading before the slot in the screw-h

KMII

Jan 16, 2016

I hear you - my problem exacty It definitely makes it better understanding why it would not be feasible to have the screws aligned, unless it was all done in a manual process, which would raise the costs further - and would probably not be feasible at the volumes required. And finally, what got added to the wishlist this time around?

skyeriding

Jan 16, 2016

Too many to count! I keep adding/removing the True Seconds each time I see it; sometimes I like it, otherwise I'm conflicted... However, I finally ticked off one checkbox off that list - Just obtained my first mechanical chronograph and manual wind today! A Speedmaster Sapphire Sandwich Regards, skyeriding (extra Note to self: I really should visit less. My wallet is hurting already..)

amanico

Jan 16, 2016

Funny, as I was very happy to see the aesthetics of this new movement, with its bridges, and even the rotor. Now, I would have preferred a higher level of decoration, but at this price, it seems that we are asking too much. Best, Nicolas

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