| Brand | Jaeger-LeCoultre |
|---|---|
| Model | |
| Reference | 252.8.08 |
| Year of production (circa) | 2005 |
| Material | Steel |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Dial color | Silver |
| Movement | Quartz |
| Diameter | 23 x 38 mm |
| Bracelet/strap: | Leather |
| Buckle/clasp | Original steel folding clasp |
| Lug Width | 17 mm |
| Set Content | JLC service papers 2025 |
Sports & Tool, Vintage Watches
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classique Ref. 252.8.08
If you know a bit about watches, you’ve likely come across the iconic JLC Reverso, a classic model with a rich history. In 1931, in a dusty environment filled with the sound of galloping horses, an idea was born: a watch with a dial that could protect itself from shocks while displaying a personalized engraved back. Enter the Reverso. The fragile glass was safeguarded during more “rugged” activities like polo, and the case was “flip-able,” making it a unique innovation in the world of horology.
What we have here is a smaller, more refined version of the Reverso, beautifully crafted in a 24mm x 38mm steel case. If you’re in search of one of the most iconic watches for a smaller or more elegant wrist, this is the one you don’t want to miss.
€ 4.690
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Details
Backstory
Shipping
Brand
Jaeger-LeCoultre
Diameter
23 x 38 mm
Model
Reverso
Bracelet/strap:
Leather
Reference
252.8.08
Buckle/clasp
Original steel folding clasp
Year of production (circa)
2005
Lug Width
17 mm
Material
Steel
Set Content
JLC service papers 2025
Crystal
Sapphire
Warranty
2 year (AWCo)
Dial color
Silver
Movement
Quartz
To understand the odd design of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, we have to travel to India, 1930. Watch collector and business man Oscar de Trey was watching British army officers play a game of polo. One of them broke his watch’s crystal during the match and challenged Oscar to come up with a design that would survive the rough sport.
De Trey dreamed up a watch that would be reversible and met up with Jacques-David LeCoultre to get it done. He would supply the movements for these watches. Edmond Jaeger (who would later merge with LeCoultre in 1937) was contracted to build the cases. A designer by the name of René-Alfred Chauvot was hired to develop the basic idea into a working design. His unique reversible watch case was patented in 1931. The case could slide out of its cradle and be turned over, exposing a metal backplate, rather than the delicate crystal and dial. The Reverso was born.
If you have a look at this 1931 art deco design, you will instantly recognize the modern Reverso. The case shape has hardly changed and the original was already rather substantial; the same size as the modern Reverso classique. Of course many variations were introduced, among which a 1935 update with a square sub-dial for the seconds.
The backplate of the Reverso was often used for personal engravings or enamel decorations. It took until 1994 before JLC would house two dials and sets of hands within a single Reverso, creating the duo-face. A technical challenge, since both faces are powered by the same movement in between. Most would feature a light and a dark dial, to match different outfits, moods or times of the day (Reverso Day & Night).
Several versions with different complications were produced from 1991 onwards. Multiple sizes, materials and movement types are also available. Most are fitted with manually wound or quartz calibers, although automatic versions do exist.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is arguably the world’s first specially designed sports watch. By today’s standards its looks are classically formal, but its roots are clearly in equestrian sports. Much like the Cartier Tank, its rectangular design has survived the test of time with flying colors. If it is a true design classic you are after, no need to look any further.
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We strive to promptly handle packages to minimize delays. Delivery times begin from the day of dispatch. While we make every effort to ensure smooth delivery, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by destination customs, local duties, taxes, or lost items during transit.
Certainly, we understand that overloaded mail-order companies can also contribute to potential delays in the delivery process. Despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control may affect shipping times. Rest assured, we remain committed to providing timely service and will work diligently to ensure your order reaches you as promptly as possible. For any inquiries or updates, feel free to reach out to us at info@awco.nl. Your satisfaction is our priority.