Created by Jacques-David LeCoultre in 1931, the Reverso was initially conceived to withstand the harsh beating a watch would endure during a game of polo. With the need for the watch to be more durable, the Reverso's genius reveals itself through its eponymous design – a reversible case. With its case able to be turned around on itself, the Reverso's dial can be protected while playing sports and returned to its natural position with a quick flick and slide. Thanks to its iconic heritage, the Reverso has evolved into one of Jaeger LeCoultre's most important design vehicles to date, with a healthy number of contemporary variations to suit the palate of modern enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Offered here today is no ordinary Reverso though, in fact, this is quite a rare variant – the Limited Japan Anshindo Edition, which was released exclusively in 2012 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Anshindo, Jaeger LeCoultre's authorized retail partner in Japan. With only 50 units ever produced, this Ref. 270.8.62 is an extremely scarce reference with some intriguing design elements. Now, let's delve into the specifics.
Just like the regular Ref. 270.8.62, this example sports a signature ‘Grand Taille’ style stainless steel case that measures 42mm (including lugs) x 26mm and is based on the golden ratio, which is a ratio between two dimensions that equals 1.618. Also known mathematically as the divine proportion, it is, in general terms, a ratio that is known to be pleasing to the human eye. Accentuating this, the case features highly polished surfaces coupled with engraved lines running horizontally across the top and bottom of the case.
The dial of this reference is undoubtedly its most distinctive and appealing design element. While it maintains the usual and simple aesthetic features we see in the regular Ref. 270.8.62, there are a few notable exceptions. The dial showcases a silver satin vertical-grain outer section, which encompasses elegantly printed black Floral Arabic numerals instead of the customary Gothic Arabic font typically seen on this reference. Moreover, it features a guilloched inner dial at the centre portion bordered by a rectangular minute track. Positioned at 6 o'clock is another rectangular small-seconds sub-dial accentuated with red details marking the 30th and 60th seconds.
Powering this stunning work of art from within is Jaeger LeCoultre’s very own manual-wind Cal. 822 at just 2.94mm in thickness, which features 21 jewels, beats at 21,600 vph and carries a power reserve of 45 hours.
Overall, this is a stunning reference that beautifully encapsulates Jaeger LeCoultre’s objective of showcasing true craftsmanship, as well as its desire to celebrate a momentous occasion with a long-time retail partner in Japan.
While any limited-edition Reverso’s can be considered rare, I do believe that finding a Japan edition of any watch is even more challenging due to their limited availability outside of the domestic market. Moreover, this specific model was never promoted outside of Japan and is unknown to most making it a true connoisseurs reference.
