Watches And Wonders 2025: Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Reverso Tribute Duoface Small Seconds Brings The Power Of Two

At Watches and Wonders 2025, Jaeger-LeCoultre once again demonstrates why the Reverso remains one of the most enduring and celebrated designs in horology. The Reverso Tribute Duoface Small Seconds is not just an evolution of the past but a refined homage to the original 1931 Reverso, now offered in striking new dial colors—deep black and vivid blue. With its distinctive Art Deco aesthetics and the practicality of two time zones, this latest release continues the Maison’s legacy of blending tradition with innovation.

Since its introduction in 1931, the Reverso has embodied a perfect balance of style and function. Originally designed to withstand the intensity of polo matches, its swiveling case was an ingenious solution to protect the delicate watch face from damage. Over the decades, the Reverso has transcended its sporting origins, evolving into a symbol of sophisticated watchmaking.

The Reverso Duoface, introduced in 1994, was a significant milestone, utilizing both sides of the swiveling case for different time displays. This duality of design allowed for the integration of a second time zone, enhancing both functionality and elegance. Now, in 2025, the Reverso Tribute Duoface Small Seconds refines this legacy with updated aesthetics and a technical execution that remains as impressive as ever.

The Power of Two: A Timepiece with Dual Personalities
At the heart of this timepiece lies the manually wound Calibre 854, a mechanical marvel comprising 160 components. Designed specifically for the Reverso, it powers two independent dials, each serving a unique purpose. The front dial remains faithful to the Reverso’s Art Deco roots, showcasing a sleek sunray finish in either black or blue. It features applied indexes, faceted Dauphine hands, and a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock, maintaining an elegant symmetry.

Flipping the case reveals the reverse dial, a modern interpretation of the original Reverso’s second face. Unlike the complex complications of some Duoface models, this edition embraces a clean, contemporary aesthetic with a sunray-brushed silver background. The 24-hour indicator at 6 o’clock provides a clear distinction between day and night, ensuring effortless readability for travelers navigating multiple time zones.

One of the most remarkable features of the Duoface mechanism is its engineering ingenuity—two sets of hands move in opposite directions, yet are driven by a single movement. The second time zone is adjusted via a discreet slider on the case, allowing for seamless transitions without disturbing the watch’s refined silhouette.

A Refined Case, A Timeless Presence
The stainless steel case of the Reverso Tribute Duoface Small Seconds adheres to the classic Reverso proportions—47mm x 28.3mm with a slim profile of 10.34mm. Despite its mechanical complexity, it remains elegant and comfortable on the wrist, a testament to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s mastery of ergonomic design.

Inside the carriage, a deeply etched sunray engraving adds a subtle decorative element, enriching the tactile experience of flipping the watch over. The signature gadroons above and below the dial reinforce the Reverso’s unmistakable visual identity, while the polished steel surface reflects light beautifully, enhancing the overall sophistication of the piece.

A Tribute to Color: The Art of Lacquering
Jaeger-LeCoultre pays homage to the colored dials of the earliest Reverso models with the two dial options:

The black dial is a direct reference to the 1931 Reverso, exuding vintage charm and understated elegance.

The blue dial is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, created using 24 layers of colored and transparent lacquer. Each layer is meticulously hand-applied and dried before the next is added, resulting in a deep, glossy finish with exceptional depth.

This technique, demanding precision and patience, ensures that the color remains vibrant and luminous over time, making the Reverso Tribute Duoface Small Seconds a true collector’s piece.

A Polo-Inspired Strap for a Modern Icon
The Reverso’s historical ties to polo extend beyond its case design. The interchangeable straps, created by Casa Fagliano, pay tribute to the brand’s equestrian heritage. Each watch comes with two strap options:

A full leather strap, crafted from the finest calfskin, for a classic and sophisticated look.

A canvas-and-leather hybrid strap, inspired by the boots Casa Fagliano creates for summer polo matches, offering a sporty yet refined alternative.

An Enduring Classic for the Modern Collector
With the Reverso Tribute Duoface Small Seconds, Jaeger-LeCoultre reaffirms its commitment to preserving tradition while embracing modernity. The dual-time zone function, the refined case proportions, and the artful execution of color make this timepiece a perfect companion for the global traveler and the discerning collector alike.

As Watches and Wonders 2025 unfolds, this latest iteration of the Reverso stands as a reminder of why some designs never fade—they simply evolve, growing more refined with each passing decade.