Amanico provides an in-depth review of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Medium or Large Duoface Small Seconds, comparing the 2018 SIHH release with its 2016 predecessor. This detailed analysis highlights key design and movement changes, offering essential insights for collectors considering these iconic reversible timepieces.
In 2016, Jaeger Lecoultre unveiled the Reverso Classic Duoface Large with an automatic movement and a round small seconds subdial.
This watch was available in steel, and in rose gold. The case was 47 x 28, 3 x 10, 3 mm big. And the Cal 969 offered a power reserve of 38 hours.
There is something special on this version, that you will notice if you pay attention to the axis of the hands on the verso dial... The ball bearings of the rotor, which surround the base of the hands.
The 2018 version is close at the first glance, but with some important differences, if you have a closer look.
First of all, the 2018 edition is available in steel, only, but in two case sizes: Medium: 42, 9 x 25, 5 mm, and 9, 2 mm high, or Large: 47 x 28, 3, 10, 3 mm high.
Then, the subdial of the Recto is not round anymore, but rectangular, and is a small seconds, while it is a 24 hours subdial for the automatic version.
The 24 hours subdial is now located on the verso.
The Verso dial is plain, there is no " hole " in the center part of the dial anymore.
The decoration of the recto and verso dials are the same than the former version, though, but cleaner, due to these stylistic changes. The recto is silver guilloché, and brushed, while the verso is a blend of black hobnail and satin.
The less visible but important change is about the movement, which is not automatic, but manual, the well known Cal 854, housed in the Tribute Duo. It is made of 160 parts, beats at 21, 600 alternances per hour, and has a power reserve of 42 hours.
Should I add, it is a very nice movement, which you won't see, except on picture:
Both medium and large sizes are available, for the same price, in " Fagliano " calf, or black alligator.
My personal thoughts on that Reverso Classic Duoface Small Seconds.
I find it more convincing than the Automatic, and I am happy to see that the brand offers the choice between a manual and an automatic version.
I think that the manual winding version is more complete, due to the presence of a small seconds, added to the 24 hours and second time zone.
I prefer manual winding movements for the Reverso, unless they are sports watches. And I hope that Jaeger Lecoultre will offer us a sporty Reverso in a close future, by the way.
The manual winding version is more convincing, in that sense that it looks more pure, in my opinion and according to my taste. Especially the Verso dial.
Here my two pictures, taken during the SIHH:
What is your take on that new Reverso?
Best,
Nicolas
