Introduction
Created in 1931 for polo players in British India, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso has become one of the defining designs of 20th-century watchmaking. Its ingenious reversible case was originally conceived to protect the crystal during play, but the distinctive Art Deco form ultimately transcended its sporting origins to become an icon in its own right.
Released in 2002 to celebrate the Reverso's 70th anniversary, the Reverso Septantième represented something considerably more ambitious. Produced as a limited edition of just 500 pieces in platinum, it introduced the larger Grande Reverso case and housed the manually wound eight-day calibre 879, developed specifically for the model. Its grey dial combines hours and minutes with small seconds, a large date and power-reserve indication, while turning the case reveals the beautifully finished movement through a sapphire display back. Both technically significant and exceptionally rare, the Septantième helped establish the template for the increasingly complicated Reversos that followed.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Service Papers
Est. value range
$15,000 – $25,000
The Details
Brand
Jaeger LeCoultre
Dimensions
46mm x 29mm
Model
Reverso Septantième
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 879
Reference
240.6.19
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
2002
Condition
Excellent
Material
Platinum
Included
Service Papers
Dial Color
Grey
THE DIAL
The grey dial retains the strong Art Deco geometry synonymous with the Reverso while incorporating an unusually rich collection of indications. Alongside the central hours and minutes are small seconds, an eight-day power-reserve display and large date, all arranged to preserve the architectural balance of the rectangular dial.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Made entirely from platinum, the 46mm x 29mm reversible case introduced larger proportions while retaining the unmistakable gadroons and geometric lines of the original Reverso. Turning the case within its carriage reveals a sapphire crystal back, transforming what was historically a protective metal surface into a window onto the movement.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The platinum case shows surface scratches and small nicks. The case back has light surface scuffs and retains well-defined engravings. The dial and hands are in near-mint condition. It is fitted with a brown leather strap and a platinum deployant clasp showing surface marks. Comes with service papers and a service guarantee from 2014.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
The Septantième occupies an important position in modern Reverso history. Created for the model's 70th anniversary and limited to only 500 examples, it combined platinum construction with a new larger case and an impressive eight-day manufacture movement. More than simply a commemorative edition, it signalled the direction Jaeger-LeCoultre would take with its increasingly sophisticated 21st-century Reversos.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
