We all know Jaeger LeCoultre (and if you don't, you can jump to the brand history section!) but who is Favre Leuba?

Favre-Leuba is the second oldest Swiss watch manufacturers, with a history that extends back over three centuries. The brand is known for its innovative and durable timepieces that have been pioneers in both watchmaking technology and functionality. 

I won't go too deep into their history here, all you need to know is that they were the first watchmaker to be introduced in the Indian market in 1865 and completely dominated the country's watch market even into the 20th century.

During the 1930's, Favre Leuba allowed co-branding with watches for the Indian market. This led Jaeger LeCoultre to introduce India to their new Reverso line which launched in 1931 by having their dials having the Favre Leuba brand name with JLC's. 

This wouldn't be the only time the companies would collaborate either. Favre Leuba actually acquired JLC in 1969 and held on to the company until 1978.

Enough about history, let's get into this watch!

This JLC Reverso features a classic, rich cream dial, showing signs of a graceful aging patina. The dial is adorned with bold, black Arabic numerals offering a stark contrast for easy legibility.

True to its name, the Reverso's party trick is its reversible case, initially designed to protect the crystal on the polo fields. This watch displays a protective solid case back that has been engraved with a monogram.

This timepiece is more than just a watch; it's a piece of history, representing a bygone era of watchmaking. It's a perfect fit for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate watches that tell a story and stand the test of time.

The Watchmaker's Watchmaker.

Jaeger-LeCoultre is a revered name in the world of watchmaking, with a history rich in innovation and craftsmanship. The Swiss luxury watch and clock manufacturer, founded in the early 19th century, is based in Le Sentier, Switzerland, and has been a fully owned subsidiary of the Swiss luxury group Richemont since 2000.

Foundation and Early Years

• 1833: The company's story began when Antoine LeCoultre opened his first workshop in Le Sentier, Switzerland, after inventing a machine to cut watch pinions from steel.
• 1844: Antoine LeCoultre created the world's most precise measuring instrument at the time, the Millionomètre.
• 1866: LeCoultre established the Vallée de Joux’s first full-fledged manufactury, revolutionizing watchmaking in the region by bringing all the specialized watchmaking skills under one roof.

Significant Contributions and Innovations

• 1903: Parisian watchmaker Edmond Jaeger challenged Swiss manufacturers to produce ultra-thin calibers like he had designed. Jacques-David LeCoultre, Antoine’s grandson, accepted the challenge, leading to a collaboration between the two.
• 1937: After years of fruitful collaboration, the Jaeger and LeCoultre companies officially merged to form Jaeger-LeCoultre.

Iconic Timepieces and Technical Mastery

• 1929: The company created the world's smallest caliber, and then in 1931, they produced one of their most iconic models, the Reverso, which featured a unique reversible case designed to protect the watch face during polo matches.
• 1950s: Jaeger-LeCoultre created the Futurematic and Memovox models, the latter featuring an alarm function that became very popular.
• 1953: They introduced the first automatic alarm watch, enhancing the Memovox line.

Continuing Legacy and Innovation

• Jaeger-LeCoultre is known for the high level of craftsmanship and has continued to produce innovative watches throughout its history. They hold hundreds of patents and have created well over a thousand different calibers.

Modern Era and Brand Prestige

• Today, Jaeger-LeCoultre is known for its diverse range of high-end timepieces, including complicated calendars, minute repeaters, and even tourbillons.
• The brand continues to embody the essence of haute horlogerie, consistently delivering watches that are both technically impressive and aesthetically pleasing. Their Master Control, Reverso, and Atmos clock lines are particularly well-regarded among collectors and enthusiasts.

Jaeger-LeCoultre's history is not just about timepieces but also about a relentless pursuit of precision and excellence in the craft of watchmaking. Their legacy is built on the foundation of countless innovations and a dedication to perfection that continues to this day.

• Model: Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso

• Reference: Unknown

• Year: 1930's

• Dial Color: Beige

• Style: Sports/Dress

• Bracelet: Hadley Roma Hermes Style Leather Strap Handmade in the USA

• Sizing: Fits up to 8" Wrist

• Box: No

• Papers: No

• Other Accessories: None

 This watch came to us through a private auction. Previous owner information is unknown.

The watch features an evenly patinated dial that shows signs of oxidation. For this reason and because of the print quality, we can safely assume that the dial and hands are original and that none of these have been refinished.

The Stainless Steel portion of the case is in good condition with only hairline scratches all around the case. No big dings, dents or openings.

The Base Metal portion of the case back is showing signs of oxidation and rust around the lugs which has caused a piece of the 5 o'clock lug to come off. This does not affect the functionality of the watch whatsoever. 

The movement has been cleaned and serviced by our professional watchmaker. It is very accurate for its age, running between +5 to +16 seconds per day.

• Case Size: 33.2mm x 23.0mm

• Lug Width: 18.0mm

• Lug to Lug: 38.1mm

• Thickness: 8.5mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Bezel Material: Stainless Steel

• Case Back Material: Base Metal

• Bracelet Material: Genuine Calfskin Leather

• Crystal: Glass

• Luminescence: None

• Manufacturer: Jaeger LeCoultre

• Caliber: JLC 11 U

• Country: Switzerland

• Movement Type: Manual Wind

• Jewels: 15

• Power Reserve: ~50 Hours