You’re right; this is not the recently released Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute two-hand monoface, which is sized almost true to the 1931. This is the “only” Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds version that the brand added to its collection during Watches and Wonders in Geneva last year. But it still feels pretty new, especially compared to its blue, red, and green predecessors. So this will be the first less colorful version and that certainly makes a big difference. Let’s take a closer look at this modern classic.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931 (2011) — Image: DavidSW
But first, some background
In 2011, Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Reverso with the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931. This model was inspired by the original 1931 Reverso and was only 7.2mm thick. Instead of the brand name, it simply said “Reverso” at 12 o’clock on the jet black dial with printed hour markers. This watch was such a success that Jaeger-LeCoultre decided to expand the Tribute collection. Most eye-catching were the 2018, 2019, and 2021 Reverso Tribute models in blue, red, and green, respectively. Last year’s model, with its silver dial, looks like an inverted version of the Ultra Thin Tribute To 1931.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Duoface Tribute to 1931 — Image: Stories of Time
However, there are quite a few differences, and that can be called a bummer. If so, you might be better off getting the Reverso Duoface Tribute to 1931. The dial of this watch is almost identical to the first Tribute from 2011, apart from the small seconds of course. However, I think Jaeger-LeCoultre has done a great job with a more modern version of the Reverso Tribute. Let’s get to the nitty-gritty and see why.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds ref. Q713842J
First of all, compared to these older models, the new Tributes all have better case fit. This is because all the lugs have a slight downward angle. This makes the Reverso feel less like a flat little board or brick on your wrist. My Reverso Classic Medium Duoface has the same shape, but with a big difference.
For my 17cm wrist, this Tribute’s diameter of 27.4mm and length of 46.5mm feels a bit large. However, I’ve seen the watch on Lex and RJ’s wrists and it’s a little big, and that size was perfect for them. With a case thickness of 8.5mm, this model is not as slender as the 2011 Ultra Thin version, but the slightly thicker version feels better proportioned.
Aside from the lowered lugs and thickness, the Reverso is as stylish and elegant as before. The gadroons above and below the dial add a unique touch to the already interesting case shape. Additionally, recent Tribute models have a beautiful sunburst engraving on the inside of the case cradle, which can be seen when you slide the main case over. The perfectly executed perlage on the pre-2018 model isn’t bad, but this sunburst engraving adds an extra touch of class.
Clean opaline silver dial
The real highlight here is the opaline silver dial. The hour markers and dauphine hands have the same shape as the more colorful version. However, here it has a black nickel finish to provide greater contrast against the light dial. It’s a darker color than a stainless steel case, but the tone complements the metal color very well. The Jaeger-LeCoultre name is printed in black on the dial, as is the minute track and round sub-seconds chapter ring. However, the brand’s silver logo on the top appears to be embossed.
The applied indexes add great depth to the flat dial, especially compared to the Tribute to 1931 version. Due to its dark hue, it’s not as shiny as the colorful Tribute model. I think it reduces reflections a little and matches the elegant style of the Reverso.
I believe this is the first time that JLC has offered Reverso directly on the Casa Fagliano collection summer strap. This means that the strap has a textile top, a dark calfskin part and keeper, and a bright leather lining. I love how this strap style dresses up the Reverso a bit. We got both the blue and black versions for our hands-on review, and we think black suits the more monochromatic look of this Reverso Tribute best. But of course you can also choose one of the all-leather versions available directly from JLC.
Great addition to an already impressive lineup
It’s funny how fresh the silver dial feels after the previous blue, red, and green versions. In my opinion, a Reverso doesn’t need a lot of bells and whistles, colors, or complications to make it look its best. The distinctive rotating case and shape will keep you entertained. The clean, sharp dial of this opaline silver version fits the Reverso’s understated character very well.
The back of this monoface model is like a blank canvas. When ordering your watch, you can request engraving from JLC. There are a variety of options including flowers, dates, and memorials. But my ultimate favorite is the beautiful JLC 1931 alphabet. The lettering is inspired by the Reverso’s Art Deco design. You can engrave up to two initials on your watch, and you can even lacquer your JLC in the color of your choice. This font is why I sometimes envy people who own Monoface Reverso.
Like many Monoface Reverso models out there, the Opaline Silver version is powered by JLC’s caliber 822. This hand-wound movement operates at 21,600 vph, has 19 jewels and has a power reserve of 42 hours.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds (Ref. Q713842J) with opaline silver dial is priced at 11,500 EUR / 10,600 USD. What do you think about this version? Do you like this one better than the blue, red and green ones like I do? Let us know in the comments!
