Created by Jacques-David LeCoultre in 1931, the Reverso was initially conceived to withstand the harsh beating a watch would endure during a game of polo. With the need for the watch to be more durable, the Reverso's genius reveals itself through its eponymous design–a reversible case. With its case able to be turned around on itself, the Reverso's dial can be protected while playing sports and returned to its natural position with a quick flick and slide.
Thanks to its iconic heritage, the Reverso has evolved into one of Jaeger LeCoultre's most important design vehicles to date, with a healthy number of contemporary variations to suit the palate of modern enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. While there have been many complications put into the Reverso over the years, one that was sorely lacking was a chronograph. Only made once in 1996 in a limited edition, my feeling is that the resources required to make a square, in-house chronograph was too great to justify. Avid followers will know that we are huge fans of the original reference, so when Jaeger-LeCoultre announced that they will be finally releasing a Reverso chronograph in 2023, we were over the moon. Unveiled in yellow gold and stainless steel, what we have here today is the latter- the Reverso Tribute Chronograph 216.8.S0.
Beginning with a stainless steel case measuring 49.9mm x 29.9mm x 11.14mm, this tribute chronograph features a striking dual-faced configuration. Much like the design language of the iconic Duoface, the design capitalises on its reversible mechanism by incorporating a second dial. The front tells the time, and the reverse side features the chronograph counter. Despite having two faces with two sets of hands, they are synced and not a dual time function. This is so that when the user wants to use the chronograph and flips the watch over, they can still tell what time it is. The original from 1996 lacked this and it is a welcome piece of functionality.
On the front, the watch features a simple yet stunning grey-blue sunburst dial that interacts beautifully with light from different angles. Flip it over, and you're treated to a view of the openworked in-house, manual-winding Cal. 860, distinguished by its captivating finishing and intricate design. The movement offers a power reserve of up to 52 hours when fully wound. Floating above the exposed inner mechanics are applied hour markers, a minute track, a 30-minute counter at 6:00, and a pair of elegant dauphine hands, complemented by blued accents that add a much-needed touch of contrast and visual flair.
Much like the Duoface, the true beauty of this timepiece lies in its duality: a refined, understated dial on one side, and a highly intricate, visually captivating movement on the other. It’s quite literally two watches in one. The Reverso Tribute Chronograph is an exceptionally versatile piece, offering the wearer two distinct faces to match their outfit, mood, or occasion.
I've always believed that Jaeger-LeCoultre Reversos occupy a category entirely their own. It's fascinating to consider that while they were originally designed for polo players—and once regarded as true sports watches—they are now widely seen as refined dress pieces. This unique blend of characteristics gives the Reverso a hybrid quality that enhances its wearability and appeal. It’s a testament to the model’s versatility: equally at home in the boardroom as it is on the polo field. Ultimately, the Reverso stands as a brilliant example of a design that not only solved a practical, real-world challenge in its time but has since become an enduring icon in the world of high-end watchmaking.
With this contemporary Reverso Chronograph, Jaeger-LeCoultre has finally addressed the missing piece to their list of complicated Reversos.
