In 2023, Jaeger-LeCoultre introduced a new ultra-thin case in pink gold for its Reverso Tribute Small Seconds. 3 dial versions with prices of €25,100
Jaeger-LeCoultre introduced a new ultra-thin case in pink gold for its Reverso Tribute Small Seconds reducing its thickness by almost 1mm to just 7.56 mm.
Crafted entirely from 750 pink gold, the iconic rectangular case measures 45.6 x 27.4 mm and is water resistant to 30 metres / 100 feet.
The slide-and-swivel mechanism of the Reverso makes its case one of the most complex in watchmaking, which added considerably to the challenge of reducing its thickness for the new models. Comprising more than 50 components – of which almost 40 are dedicated to the swivelling mechanism – the cases are entirely produced and hand-assembled by a specialised team within the Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre.
The new slimmed-down case can be matched to sunray-brushed dials in three variations: black (ref. Q713257J), burgundy lacquer (ref. Q713256J) and silver (ref. Q7132521).
The black and burgundy dials are paired with two Fagliano Collection straps – one in the signature canvas-and-calf combination and the other in all calf. The silver dial is paired with a Fagliano Collection canvas-and-calf strap and an additional black alligator strap.
The process of making sunray dials involves galvanising the dial base to give a metallic sheen and protect the underlying brass from oxidation. Fine, almost imperceptible lines are traced on the surface in a sunray pattern to create the characteristic hue variation. The surface is varnished and polished unless the dial is to be lacquered.
Creating coloured dials involves applying up to four layers of coloured lacquer to achieve the desired tone, followed by up to 20 layers of translucent lacquer to add depth and fix the colour. Each layer is applied by hand and must dry under ideal conditions before the next can begin. The lacquer is varnished with a brilliant finish and polished by hand to create a mirror-like effect that enhances the intensity and depth of the colour.
The signature design elements of the Reverso Tribute are all there, with the hours marked by applied indexes rather than numerals, and the 12 marked by a double index. The faceted shape echoes the form of the Dauphine hands adding visual depth to the dial surface. At 6 o'clock, the circular track of the small seconds display provides a visual balance to the linear geometry of the dial and case.
Harmonising with the sunray brushing of the dial, a dramatic sunray pattern on the inside of the carrier is visible as the case is flipped over.
The solid metal back of the reversible case can be used for personalisation.
Also new for 2023, a silver opaline dial with black nickel finished hands and indexes adds a dynamic and contemporary feel to the stainless steel Reverso Tribute model, whose thickness, differently from the pink gold version, remains unchanged at 8.5 mm.
All four new models are powered by the manually wound mechanical movement, Calibre 822, beating at 21,600 vibrations per hour with a power reserve of 42 hours. Like all Jaeger-LeCoultre calibres, its components are finely finished and decorated, even though they are hidden beneath the solid metal case-back.
The new Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Small Seconds in pink gold have a retail price of Euro 25,100 / US$ 21,900 while the new steel version (ref. Q713842J) retails at Euro 11,000 / US$ 9,600 (Euro prices including VAT, US$ prices excluding local sales taxes). jaeger-lecoultre.com
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