History Repeating With The New Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Minute Repeater
The Reverso by Jaeger-LeCoultre is an icon in its own right. However, while a superb part of horological history in its original, time-only configuration, it is also a magnificent canvas for the brand to show its considerable technical prowess. That is precisely what they have done with the new Reverso Tribute Minute Repeater. Jaeger-LeCoultre has significant experience with this type of complication, as since its founding, they have developed and built over 200 different chiming calibers. In 1994 they made the step to wristwatches with the launch of the Reverso Répétition Minutes, for which they miniaturized a minute repeater to fit a Reverso, making the world’s first rectangular minute repeater movement in the process.
The new Reverso Tribute Minute Repeater is a limited edition of just ten pieces. Its pink gold case measures 51.1 by 31mm and is just 11.41mm thick. This is remarkable slender as this includes not only the complex movement but also the mechanism for the swiveling case. For this watch, Jaeger-LeCoultre revised Caliber 944. It is fitted with hands on both sides of the case, essentially eliminating what is the front and the back of this timepiece. The style of decorations differs on each side, giving them a character of their own. More importantly, they also allow us to see the inner workings of this complex caliber in great detail.
Both sides add a great sense of depth to the watch, outlined by a railroad track on which faceted hour markers float over the movement. One side shows the mystique of the minute repeater, allowing you to see its many parts in action. Here Jaeger-LeCoultre applied a gold finish on many of the bridges and other elements to create harmony with the rest of the watch. The other side is quite the opposite, as here a stunning decoration of Geneva stripes highlights the main plate and much of the going train. A dash of color is offered by both the blued screws, red rubies, as well as the gold hands. To further amplify the sense of luxury, Jaeger-LeCoultre opted for a pink gold case, which goes well with the chestnut color of the alligator leather strap. It serves as the perfect finishing touch on what is a true tribute to the Reverso, as well the chiming legacy of Jaeger-LeCoultre.
