TIMEPIECES · JAPONISTA UNIVERSE
Jaeger-LeCoultre: Reverso, Atmos and the Vallée de Joux
Antoine LeCoultre founded his workshop in the Vallée de Joux in 1833, and the house became a manufacture in the true sense, making its own movements and supplying them to others. The Reverso of 1931, with a case that flips to protect the dial, remains its most recognisable design. The Atmos clock, which runs on small changes in air temperature, is its other icon.
For collectors the appeal is mechanical as much as visual. Each piece is recorded by reference, case and dial condition, movement state and service history where we can confirm it, together with the completeness of box and papers.
The Reverso has long been popular in Japan, and examples in careful private ownership appear regularly.
The Hunting Salon™
If you are looking for a particular Jaeger-LeCoultre reference, the Hunting Salon™ can assist discreetly with search, verification and shipping.
Curator’s note: Read Collectible Watches from Japan and browse Collectible Watches. Continue with the Fashionista Bible and the collector guides.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Reverso introduced?
In 1931, with a swivelling case designed to protect the dial.
Do boxes and papers matter?
Yes; see What Makes a Full Set?
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes. Duties vary by destination; see Import Duties on Luxury Goods from Japan.
Index terms: jaeger-lecoultre · jlc reverso · reverso watch · atmos clock · vallée de joux · swiss manufacture · master control · antoine lecoultre
