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Think classic sport watches and your mind tends to go to something big, round, and metallic. But the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso bucks that trend. Swiss businessman César de Trey invented the watch with a flippable dial after he saw Polo players damage their pieces during matches in India. The Reverso’s sport roots run deep but it comes in a rectangular shape mostly associated with elegant dress pieces. The model also looks as good on a leather trouser-loving Lenny Kravitz, as it does on Andrew Garfield in a Gucci suit at the Oscars.
JLC has a lot of strings to its bow—hello Polaris and Master Ultra Thin models—but none are more compelling and straight up sexy than the Reverso. This is why JLC is going all-in on its swivelly Reverso this year, in line with the 100th anniversary of Art Deco. “In essence, the original design didn’t really change. There are just little touch-ups, such as a slightly curved back so it sits better on the wrist. It’s such a strong Art Deco design,” says Fratello writer and Chronotext founder Lex Stolk.
“Having that Art Deco style feels timeless” says celebrity stylist Warren Alfie Baker, who has worked with Garfield on a number of red carpet fits. “It is so elegant and has something different that sets it apart from other brands. You can do something classic whilst also featuring something that feels different and unique.”
In 2025, JLC is leveling the model up with variations like the Reverso Hyrbis Artistica, which packs in a gyrotourbillon into its white gold case; Reverso minute repeater; Reverso Tribute Geographic, with a world-time complication; and four Reverso Tributes with unique polo engravings. The Swiss watchmaker is doubling down on OG design and killer complications.