amanico
[JLC Moderator]
400942
Superb post, my friend. Oh yes, there is a lot to say about the Reverso Gran Sport Chronograph.
I reviewed this watch some time ago. A watch which is not in my collection but in my wish list.
I think it faced two problems:
- A bit bold for its size,
- A bit too high in price.
A pity because I can say it one more time, it is one of these great watches JLC made. I am not a fan of the Squadra, for the same reason you mentioned, too square for me, but this Gran Sport Line and especially this Chrono deserved a better appreciation, just for one reason: The movement, which is fantastic: Manual winding, 100% in house, rectangular, retrograde: Incredible.
Other than that, the bracelet, which is, as you said, a piece of technology.
And the dial, which is very much my taste.
I am just hunting a tritium version.
Here is one I saw not a long time ago.
Best,
Nicolas.
PS: Good news, the strap is still available.
Gran Sport revisit
Fans of JLC are familiar with the Gran Sport even if they don't like the series. What I would like to share is to point out thoughts were put into the design of the dial face. First is the font type, it is referred to as Linton but I really cannot find th...
Superb post, my friend. Oh yes, there is a lot to say about the Reverso Gran Sport Chronograph.
I reviewed this watch some time ago. A watch which is not in my collection but in my wish list. I think it faced two problems: - A bit bold for its size, - A bit too high in price. A pity because I can say it one more time, it is one of these great watche...
The raised markers are incredible! That has always been on my radar. Not that I need to purchase another piece but to look out for.
Sizing in my opinion is perfect. Chronograph movement is a die hard piece of work.
Design issues hurt the chronograph’s sales prospects, in my opinion
This is all purely subjective and “eye of the beholder,” but I think two design faults mar the chronograph. (The movement, of course, is exceptional.) 1. Lugs. The crenellated lugs draw the viewer’s eyes away from the dial, which is not a good thing. The ...
Have admired this watch for a long time
and may end up with one. Can find good deals used if one is patient. Love the bracelet but can't decide between white and charcoal dials.
There are some bargains around. I thought an overhaul would cost a fortune. Couple of years ago, mine was serviced by JLC and it cost US$850.
It was reasonable considering the previous service was done ten years prior.
Fantastic post!👏👏👏
The commercial failure of this watch can only be seen as a potential long term benefit to the collectors. Yes, this wasn’t a watch that resonated with the masses but perhaps it will be something that will be looked upon more favorably a little further dow...
What surprises me is the Gran Sport Chronograph was launched back in 2002, to me it hardly looks vintage. But like you said, time will tell.
Perhaps another ten years, the movement will be much more appreciated.
Other than the 829, this movement is unique. Most manufacturers make a chronograph using a base movement or adding a chronograph module on top.
The 859 had to be designed from scratch. JLC use KIF shock absorber which is superior in its own right. Which JLC has a manual winding chronograph extending beyond the Reverso line? Which JLC has a manual winding chronograph retrograde ? ...
I guess you have the info
But here are two (bad) shots from the catalogue. Best, E. ...