The Reverso is a fascinating and enduring timepiece that has vastly outpaced its original raison d'être. Much more than a watch, it represents the spirit of the times and an appreciation for functionality in design.

The Grande Reverso 976 takes its cue from the iconic Reverso and connects the past with the present; it is the modern face of the classic sports watch. Resolutely masculine and undeniably sophisticated, the Grande Reverso 976 is the embodiment of haute horology for men.

By Chrono24

This page contains information about:

A History of Strength: The Reverso 976

Stainless steel is a true homage to the Reverso’s origins as a sports watch. Designed to protect the face during fast-paced games of polo, the swivel case needed to be fortified. To better protect the watch, the original Reverso was conceived in polished stainless steel. Chosen for its quality and durability, it is, incidentally, the ideal material for shoeing sport horses. It is thanks to this long-wearing metal that the Reverso has enjoyed such an enduring partnership with equestrian sports.

This 180-piece limited edition Reverso 976 features a white satin brushed guilloché dial with black Arabic numerals. The blue sword hands and inner minute track are quintessential Deco, while the seconds subdial adds a subtle touch of horological refinement. Securing the slender 48.5mm by 30mm case are the rounded lugs and black alligator strap with double folding buckle that makes for a snug but comfortable fit on the wrist.

The Reverso 976 in 18K Pink Gold

Although the Reverso has its origins in sport, it was quickly embraced as an icon of the Art Deco movement. This version of the Grande Reverso 976 showcases the other side of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s experts as not just fine watchmakers, but artisans. Just 80 pieces of this impressive model were ever produced.

The 18K pink gold swivel case also features a scratch and glare-proof sapphire crystal. The two-tone silver dial with Clous de Paris in the center is framed with black Arabic numeral hour markers and an inner track for the minute divisions - providing all the contrast needed for low light social settings off of the playing field. The minute reader subdial at 6 o’clock is characteristic of this model, and is a light complication in keeping with the simplicity of the design.

The Caliber of the Grande Reverso 976

Both models of the Grande Reverso 976 share the eponymous Caliber 976. The water-tight sapphire crystal placed into the reverse face displays the mechanics of the movement within. Owners of the Reverso 976 admire the compelling rhythmic motions that are every bit as charming as the iconic watch case.

Jaeger-LeCoultre’s sheer attention to detail is exhibited on the surface of this finely decorated movement. It reminds us that Jaeger-LeCoultre are not just designers of watches, but inventors of the powerful movements within them.

The Grande Reverso 976 also has another unique feature. When changing the time, rather than moving the hour hand around the track, this caliber contains an additional mechanism that enables the user to adjust the time in hour increments, both forwards and backwards, without affecting the minutes and seconds hands. This allows the wearer to quickly and accurately adjust their timepiece to new time zones.

The Reverso 976 provides the wearer with a rare insight into the workings of an horological masterpiece. It was created to satisfy those with a natural curiosity and those who appreciate the skill and complexity that goes into making a Jaeger-LeCoultre wristwatch.