Rare Bird: Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Sun Moon 8-Days. A Fascinating Discontinued Reverso.
Every once in a while we run into rare birds and this time is the turn for this Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. Sometimes we wonder why certain timepieces like this fascinating JLC Grande Reverso Sun Moon 8-Days in rose gold get discontinued. Even though this Reverso ref. Q3042420 is now discontinued, we feel that it is still worth talking about it nowadays, especially with the new Reversos about to be unveiled in less than four days at the SIHH 2016 in Geneva where we will be providing in-person coverage.
The Dial
This watch, fitted with a silvered 'guilloché' dial, presents one of the most fascinating complications from this manufacture that includes a moon phase indicator at 5, a day/night display at 2 and a power reserve indicator between 10 and 11 o'clock. This particular watch has started to show some sort of oxidation or discoloration around the moon phase and day/night aperture —a very interesting thing considering the young age of this watch.
The Movement
To make this watch even more fascinating, the verso side comes with a display back to showcase the manual-wound Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 873 that features duo spring barrels and 25 jewels which provides eight full days of power reserve when fully wound. The calibre is beautifully decorated with Côtes de Genève, blue lettering, blued screws and blue stars that are subtly interconnected with the rubies and the screws to create an imaginary constellation. The case back, as it is customary, features the traditional markings as well as 'perlage' decoration on its inner side.
The Case
The Grande Reverso Sun Moon 8-Days is a manual-wound watch with a power reserve of 8 days in an 18K rose gold case measuring 46.5mm in length x 29.5mm in width.
The Strap
Even though the watch is waterproof rated to a depth of 30 meters, we wouldn't dare to submerse this watch in water as it is fitted with a very elegant brown alligator strap with a double-folding deployant buckle.
On the Wrist & Pricing
As with other Reversos, the watch wears true to its size and is a perfect fit on a 7-7.25" wrist. Even though the watch is somewhat thick, it could easily get tucked under the cuff of your Brioni shirts. Elegant, understated and timeless is the design of this timepiece.
Last known Sticker Price $23,500 USD. For more info on Jaeger-LeCoultre click here.