Introducing: Eight Curated Reverso Watches From The 1930s
Oldies but goldies. Reverso watches from the 1930s comprise Jaeger-LeCoultre’s fifth capsule collection of The Collectibles. As you can see, this time, the focus is squarely on the brand’s iconic model, the reversible Reverso, originally launched in 1931. All eight watches were fully authenticated and restored in the brand’s restoration workshop in Le Sentier, Switzerland. A selection of these collectibles is on display in JLC’s NYC boutique until February 23rd. Let’s look at all eight.
The thoroughly curated fifth capsule collection of The Collectibles includes watches dating from 1931 to 1937. The collection includes eight rare and sought-after models, emblematic pieces from the “golden age” of 20th-century watchmaking, displaying a distinct Art Deco style. Among the eight are several Reversos from the model’s birth year, 1931.
Eight curated Reverso watches from the 1930s
The first Reverso we’ll take a look at features a black dial. At the time, it was described as “the dial of the future.” At a time when silver dials were the norm, a black dial featuring a railroad minute track and pointed baton indexes seemed futuristic. This 21 × 39mm watch (US$53,000) from the beginning of the Reverso’s life displays how ahead of its time the design was, bearing today’s Reverso Tribute aesthetic.
On display in NYC is also a rare 1936 Reverso (US$47,100) made of steel and 18K yellow gold. Inside this 21 × 39mm watch is caliber 410, the first in-house shaped movement developed specifically for the Reverso. The movement debuted in 1933 and distinguishes itself with a small seconds display at 6 o’clock. The alloys chosen for the two-tone case have a function as well. Combining gold with harder metals results in a watch that is more robust than a full-gold piece.
The youngest Reverso of the bunch
The third Reverso dates back to 1937. This 21 × 39mm watch (US$44,700) with small seconds houses caliber 413, the brand’s fourth in-house Reverso movement. Its black dial bears the name Jaeger-LeCoultre, marking the 1937 merger of Jaeger and LeCoultre.
The different women’s models reveal how early the Reverso was reimagined for non-polo players. The Reverso 1931 Dame in 18K yellow gold (US$41,200) is a good example. As you know, this alloy is significantly softer than steel. Its dial abandons the minute track in favor of corner brackets, a graphic signature visible on today’s Reverso One.
More Reversos for ladies
Rarer still is the Reverso 1931 Dame Double Signature, fitted with heat-blued hands (US$23,600). The Golay Fils & Stahl name on the dial tells an interesting story. Only small numbers of Reverso watches were delivered to a select circle of prestigious retailers, whose signatures appeared alongside the Reverso branding.
The collection also includes a Reverso 1931 Dame on a cordonnet bracelet (US$35,300). Though typically rendered in leather, the slender, rope-like strap is executed in chrome here. The distinctive lugs heighten the watch’s jewelry-like appeal.
Completing the lineup are two 16 × 33mm Reverso 1931 Dame models. The watches have geometric brackets and feature black (US$29,400) or brown (US$23,600) calfskin straps.
With their sharp lines and black dials —strikingly modern for their time, as you know now — they capture the bold graphic spirit of the era.
Practical information
The presentation of the fifth capsule collection of The Collectibles will last until February 23rd, 2026, at 701 Madison Avenue, New York City. It is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It goes without saying that these exclusive, historically relevant watches are for sale. If you can’t make it to NYC, don’t fret. You can acquire the Collectibles timepieces on Jaeger-LeCoultre’s website. If the watches are out of reach, a book titled The Collectibles is also available. You can buy it online and at all Jaeger-LeCoultre boutiques worldwide.
