Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrates 90th anniversary of the Reverso with the retrospective “Reverso: Timeless Stories Since 1931” in their Sydney Boutique
Zach BlassMany watch enthusiasts believe that the terms “icon” is overused by watch media. Fair play. But when a collection that has been consistently beloved for decades, celebrates its 90th birthday, I believe this is one of the sure moments where it is safe to label it so. Any watch lover worth their salt has heard of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. It is a classic collection that is irrefutably one of the most distinguished designs in watchmaking. In honour of the Reverso’s 90th birthday, Jaeger-LeCoultre this week, in their Sydney Boutique, is hosting Reverso: Timeless Stories Since 1931 – a retrospective that will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history of the classic reference.
While today it is considered to be a timeless dress watch any collector can not go wrong with adding to their collection, its inception was rooted in sport. With its carriage mid-case, which can be flipped at the wearer’s discretion, Jaeger-LeCoultre did not merely introduce a gimmick to market. It was, in fact, a creative solution to protect the timepiece during strenuous activities such as polo. By flipping the dial of the case over, the wearer is able to shield the watch from shock – safeguarding and protecting the precious timepiece. That being said, Jaeger-LeCoultre would go on to expand the applications of its ingenious flippable carriage case system, such as having two dials (the Reverso Duo) with independent indications.
The retrospective consists of four sections. The journey begins with the Story of an Icon, retelling the tale of the Reverso’s origins through a selection of milestone Reverso watches, from the first 1931 model to the latest Reverso Tribute piece. A Story of Style & Design examines the Art Deco roots of the Reverso. The Story of Craftsmanship walks visitors through the various skills of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s enamellers, gem-setters, engravers and guillochage masters. A Story of Innovation explores how the Reverso has evolved over the last ninety years, beginning with the revolutionary idea of a case that could be flipped over to the introduction of high-watchmaking complications, such as the first rectangular minute repeater. But that is not all. Horology lovers will be pumped to know that, while visiting, you will be able to test your watchmaking mettle with a chance to try your hand at perlage (also known as circular graining).
How to visit the Jaeger-LeCoultre “Reverso: Timeless Stories Since 1931” Retrospective
The retrospective “Reverso: Timeless Stories Since 1931” is located at the Jaeger-LeCoultre Sydney boutique from Thursday March 10 to Saturday March 12, 2022. It is free to all, and runs every 30-minutes with no booking required and walk-ins accepted. Guests can also register their interest and attendance via their boutique team at [email protected] or via (02) 9061 4520.
ADDRESS
JAEGER-LECOULTRE BOUTIQUE – SYDNEY
84 KING STREET, SHOP 4
2000 – SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
OPENING HOURS
SATURDAY 10AM-5PM (AEDT)
SUNDAY 11AM-5PM (AEDT)
FROM MONDAY TO FRIDAY 10AM-5.30PM (AEDT)