Elite Traveler March-April 2016

DISCOVER

elite traveler MAR/APR 2016 27

Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Atelier Reverso Classic Duetto, Reverso Tribute Gyrotourbillon, $270,000

Watches WATCH EVOLUTION Making any changes to a timepiece as iconic as Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Reverso, which debuted in 1931, is always a slightly dangerous proposition. How do you change something so beloved by collectors and watch connoisseurs while keeping them on your side?

The meticulous craftsmanship that goes into the design and making of the Jaeger-LeCoultre

Reverso Tribute Gyrotourbillon

And it wouldn’t be an anniversary (or the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie Genève watch show), without a Grande Complication. This year’s highlight is the Reverso Tribute Gyrotourbillon, part of the Hybris Mechanica line. Made in platinum and limited to 75 pieces, the Gyrotourbillon is smaller thanks to a new in-house movement. The front face is hypnotic as the biaxial flying tourbillon rotates and the back dial’s openworked movement shows off the craftsmanship

For its 85th anniversary, Jaeger- LeCoultre decided to preserve key aspects of the Reverso, including the all-important Golden Ratio proportions, Dauphine watch hands and dual faces, while acknowledging the demands of clients. Several Classic models are now automatic, reflecting the aversion of some to watch winding, but Jaeger-LeCoultre lets creativity run wild in the Atelier Reverso. Clients can personalize every part of the back dial: strap, color, hour markers and gems. There’s even a special design by Christian Louboutin.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Duetto Moon in 18K pink gold with diamonds and alligator strap, $23,800

of Jaeger-LeCoultre. jaeger-lecoultre.com

Words: Kristen Shirley