In Conversation With: Catherine Renier, CEO Of Jaeger-LeCoultre On The Secrets Of The Reverso, 1931 Cafe And More At Watches And Wonders 2023

It’s not easy to earn the ‘watchmaker of watchmakers’ title. And when Indian Polo players decided to give this watchmaking Maison a challenge, they had no option but to deliver and take everyone by surprise. We are talking about none other than Jaeger-LeCoultre. The Reverso Tribute Chronograph unveiled at Watches And Wonders 2023 surprised everyone.

We caught up with Catherine Renier, CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre to discuss the novelties, a tribute to Art Deco, and more. Let’s unravel the secrets of this secret collection.

It’s already a feat to make the Reverso. But, this time they’ve taken it a step further. The newly unveiled Reverso Tribute Chronograph showcased a skeletonised dial on one side. Talking about how they made it possible Catherine said, “This chronograph is a new calibre and a fully integrated chronograph. It was made at the Manufacture which is 190 years old and has made over 1270 calibres. This watch shows the time on both sides making it a great timepiece. You can have the front of the watch which is very elegant and has a blue-grey dial. When you flip it over, you can see the magic of the open-worked chronograph.”

When we talk about Jaeger-LeCoultre’s launches, it’s always about high-complications and extremely expensive watches. This watch has been introduced in gold but also in steel. Will this watch be the one that is not available easily this year? Sharing her thoughts Catherine said, “We’ll have to wait and see as the success has been great so far. This watch deserves every bit of praise because it’s amazing and a true expression of the Maison. From the timelessness of the Reverso, the amazing Art Deco design, and the craft behind the case to being a true tribute to the early 30s, this watch is spectacular. We’ve brought a high retrograde chronograph to this timepiece, which is a one-of-a-kind chronograph.”

The Maison has also unveiled some amazing enameled dials for the ladies and the gorgeous Secret Reverso necklace. Sharing her thoughts she said, “Through these timepieces, we wanted to bring out the decorative side of Jaeger-LeCoultre. We have a rare Metier d’Art workshop on enamelling and gem-setting at the Manufacture. All the pieces presented have been done in-house.”

Moving on, Jaeger-LeCoultre is seen becoming more receptive to a much younger audience. Earlier, it was considered very classic or a timepiece bought only once you reach a certain stature in life. But with the new launch and this time in steel, what was the thought behind this? “It was important to do this. The younger audience will find the new chronograph in style today like we see the trend of sneakers and suits. This timepiece has a casualness as well a sophistication element in it. This is how Reverso is becoming more in sync with the clientele and younger audience”, she further added.

Expressing the brand through current trends in the form of this Reverso is the way forward for the brand. It’s the start of a new era. With NFTs and blockchain entering the watch world, will this Maison adopt it too? Sharing her thought Catherine said, “We are following this trend closely. NFTs can bring a lot of added value as well in supporting our clientele in the identification of their timepieces. We’re exploring but there’s no concrete plan at the moment.”

Did you know Jaeger-LeCoultre also introduced the 1931 Cafe? What is it all about? To express the welcoming spirit of Vallée de Joux Manufacture. They wish to transport the feeling you experience when you visit the Manufacture in the mountains.

A moment for human interaction, a feeling of warmth, and a Cafe sure to give you a sugar rush. Well, Catherine went on to share some more insights on the essence of the Cafe, a tribute to the Golden ratio, and a chance to visit the Cafe too.

Watch the entire interview: