Launched in 1931, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Reverso wristwatch was designed for polo players who found their watches were often damaged during matches. The model became one of the most beloved rectangular timepieces of the 20th century with an ingenious case design, which flips over thus protecting the crystal. The polo player could wear their wristwatch during chukkers without risk of damage. Since its launch, the Reverso has been produced in countless variations, from simple time-only models to more complicated examples with perpetual calendar, tourbillon and minute repeater.

Simple and elegant in form, but commanding in presence, the present Reverso is a limited edition of fifty pieces from 2013, rendered in 18K white gold with a blue enamel dial. The lustre of white gold and the brilliant azure dial is an intoxicating combination. Large, Breguet-style Arabic numerals add legibility as well as elegance, and the placards bearing the maker and model name stand out proudly. The dial itself is a masterpiece of enameling, having endured twenty individual firings in a kiln, with the precise temperature and timing a mystery to all but the master artisan. The final layer of translucent enamel lends additional vibrancy and ensures durability. The guilloché motif swirls out from the center of the dial; first floral in appearance and then melding into an almost cloud-like design. All this is completed, start to finish, entirely by hand.

The present example has been preserved in absolutely crisp condition over the past decade, with little signs of wear. Only 50 total examples were created in 2012, and it is a rare occurrence that they appear publicly. Paired with perhaps a cobalt blue suede strap, or a navy alligator, there’s no chance of the blues when wearing this timepiece .