Le Coultre Reverso (c 1935)

13 March 2021 Note: this watch is reserved

This is one of the iconic watches of the 20th century: the Le Coultre Reverso. This model has an unusual feature that allows the face of the watch to be turned inwards to protect it. This innovation was to address a need amongst polo playing Army officers in the 1930s, who wanted to protect their watch while playing this sport. The watch found a much wider audience and became a stylish accessory for the well dressed gentlemen in the years before the second world war.

The case and dial very clearly reflect the time they were made in - the watch has an elegant Art Deco design, which was at the height of fashion when it was made. This watch is signed "Le Coultre" on the dial, rather than "Jeager Le Coultre", at it pre-dates the merging of these two companies in 1937.

The watch is in excellent order: the dial is clean and the case is free from any significant defects. The watch head rotates smoothly and the movement has been serviced and runs very well. Many people used the large blank area of the case back to have dedications or monograms engraved, although not something that has happened to this watch.

The watch has been fully serviced and is performing very well. I feel somewhat protective to this watch - it's survived in excellent order for such a long time and I'm sure it's new owner will cherish and keep it for future generations to enjoy.

Case size: 23mm x 38mm
Case material: Stainless steel
Strap width: 17mm
time keeping: grade A