Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Disassembly Guide
Vintage

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Disassembly Guide

By quattro · Apr 5, 2026 · 15 replies
quattro
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
15 replies233 views17 photos
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Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, offers a rare glimpse into the intricate engineering of a vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. His detailed photo series disassembling a 1948 stainless-steel model, powered by the Calibre 437, provides invaluable insight into the iconic case design by Réne-Alfred Chauvot. This post is particularly relevant for collectors and enthusiasts keen to understand the mechanical artistry behind one of horology's most distinctive timepieces.

Designed by French engineer Réne-Alfred Chauvot, the case of the Reverso is quite fascinating.

And I find it a pleasure to see the parts of which it is composed.

So, here's a series of photos showing the disassembling of a 1948 stainless-steel Reverso with a radium dial

The watch is powered by the Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 437.

Enjoy!

Best, Emmanuel







Watch by Jaeger LeCoultre, Reverso




















credit: Benjamin Marcello


THE ORIGINAL DESIGN PATENT (the registration request was filed on March 4, 1931)






credit: Monochrome 

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CH
ChristianDK
Apr 5, 2026

It’s always interesting to see these old cases. I believe a lot of engineering has been done to the design but these have a warmth and charm like vintage cars. How did the restoration of your family heirloom go btw? Happy Sunday, E.

QU
quattro
Apr 5, 2026

Thanks for asking about the restoration of my grandfather's watch: the service has been delayed and the new estimated availability date is 24 April. I asked for confirmation of this date, as I will be in Paris at that time, which would be ideal for picking up the watch: but I have not received any confirmation yet (my email is from 10 days ago)... Fingers crossed! Best, Emmanuel

AR
Arronax
Apr 5, 2026

Is it brass or some kind of gold plating?

CH
ChristianDK
Apr 5, 2026

I forgot when you handed it in for service. Feels like s while ago, though. These projects take time but I’m sure it will bring lots of pleasure with the meaning it carries. It’s also interesting to see how well finished this movement and gears are. Not fancy but well made.

QU
quattro
Apr 5, 2026

so a little more than one year ago and it was supposed to last 55 weeks, which implied a delivery on March 12. Anyway there's not too much waiting left, now. Thank you for your kind words.

DI
Dimardi
Apr 5, 2026

Will be spectacular when you get it back....I'm excited for you already! I'm sure we'll see plenty of pics!

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