Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso Classique 251.8.86 on Bracelet
Designed by René-Alfred Chauvot, the Reverso was conceived with the express purpose of being able to withstand the harsh beating a watch would endure during a game of polo. This was put to JLC by entrepreneur César de Trey as a challenge for the brand in 1930. Born the year following in 1931, the Reverso was a sports watch, thanks to its unique case design. In the 1930s, the Reverso needed to be more durable than other available watches; hence its ingenious reversible case was born. This protected the dial from a direct hit and gave the Reverso its name. Over 90 years later and the Reverso’s design lives on as one of the most recognizable in watchmaking. Offering a construction that is immediately reminiscent of the Reverso’s original design, the ref. 251.8.86’s stainless steel case sports 23mm x 38mm dimensions that make it incredible wearable and distinctly understated. Featuring a monochromatic single-texture black dial with prominent Arabic numerals, the ref. 251.8.86 is intensely refined and classical, as the Reverso has always been over the decades. Powered by a JLC caliber manual-wind movement, as the Reverso was originally, and offered on a brown leather strap with a steel folding clasp, this example offers fantastic wearability that will certainly allow it to easily fit into any collection.
THE DIAL Featuring an immensely classical black dial, this example boasts smart Arabic numerals along with an appealing creamy color that combines to ensure that this Reverso's iconic monochromatic display is a delight to behold.
THE CONSTRUCTION Standing 38mm tall and only 23mm wide, this Reverso's construction is immediately reminiscent of the Reverso's original design, but with its sleek stainless steel bracelet adding a distinctly modern twist.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
