Exploring the full potential of the Reverso as a canvas for artistic expression, Jaeger-LeCoultre introduced the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179, in 2023 – an exceptional timepiece that married La Grande Maison’s signature multi-axis tourbillon to the finest decorative craftsmanship. In 2025, the Maison reinterprets the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 in 18k white gold (750/1000), to be produced in a limited edition of 10 pieces.
A Tour-De-Force of mechanical ingenuity inspired by a fascination with the tourbillon
Created in 1931, the Reverso was designed to meet the demands of the newly fashionable ‘sporting gentleman’. A challenge was set by polo-playing military officers in India during the British Raj to create a watch that could withstand the rigours of the polo field. The Reverso was the answer – a masterful integration of form and function. Quickly adopted by tastemakers from all walks of life, the Reverso soon transcended its original sporting purpose as new variations appeared – for both men and women. However, its iconic double-sided case and distinctive Art Deco lines have remained constant, making the Reverso one of the world’s most recognisable wristwatches.
Calibre 179 features the fourth evolution of the Gyrotourbillon, the Manufacture’s signature multi-axis tourbillon – a technical tour-de-force developed specifically for the Reverso. The demand that the regulating mechanism be integrated into a shaped movement that follows the contours of the rectangular Reverso case and is slim enough to be comfortable on the wrist, makes the engineering feat even more noteworthy. Moreover, Calibre 179 is a Duoface movement, displaying a different time zone on each dial as well as a 24-hour indicator for the second time zone on the reverse dial.
Visually enthralling to observe as it pirouettes around its twin axes, the structure of the Gyrotourbillon is highly complex: with a total of 123 components, it comprises one ultra-light titanium cage and a peripheral carriage mounted on ball-bearings; these two elements turn perpendicularly to each other at different speeds. The inner tourbillon cage rotates 360 degrees every 16 seconds and the peripheral carriage makes a full rotation once per minute; this peripheral carriage also provides a small seconds function, indicating the seconds on a ring that encircles the tourbillon aperture.
A closer look reveals a greyed semi-spherical balance spring beating at the heart of the mechanism, as well as the distinctive double-anchor shape of a Gyrolab balance ‘wheel’ – both elements paying testament to Jaeger- LeCoultre’s tireless pursuit of greater precision and mechanical efficiency. In this quest, the Manufacture’s engineers have created balance springs in several different forms over the years and this hemispherical shape, perfectly adapted to the hollow sphere at the heart of the Gyrotourbillon add aesthetic refinement as well as being highly efficient. The double-anchor shape of the Gyrolab was designed to reduce air friction and thus further enhance timekeeping accuracy.
Rather than being held in place by a conventional bridge, the tourbillon mechanism is supported by a ring of ball bearings. As a result, this flying Gyrotourbillon appears to be floating in the space between the front and back dials of the Reverso, with no apparent means of support. The effect is amplified by the light reflected from the mirror-like surface of a polished blue lacquer disc positioned on the supporting cradle of the watch directly beneath the tourbillon aperture.
A new colour palette showcases the skills of the manufacture’s craftsmen
Anchoring the colour palette of the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 and creating a rich contrast with the white gold case, shiny dark blue lacquer also decorates the front and reverse dials of the watch.With its double-sided, Duoface movement, this Reverso offers two distinct personalities. On the front dial, in a subtle allusion to the geometric patterns of Art Deco that determined the original Reverso design, a lattice of fine lines matches the colour of the precious metal case. The cool, silvery tones of the white gold contrast with the blue lacquer of the decorative plates and bridges, complementing the deep blue gradient lacquer of the front dial.
These lines are in fact ultra-fine ribs of the calibre plate metal, which remained when the surface was hollowed out to create depressions to contain the lacquer. A work of extraordinary precision, the lacquer was deftly hand-applied between the metal ribs to achieve the desired richness of colour and exactly the right depth; the surface is then polished by hand by the same craftsman to a glossy finish that is perfectly flush with the ribs.
On the reverse dial, blue lacquer has been applied to the fine tracery of the skeletonised hours-minutes ring and its supporting bridges, highlighting the airy aesthetic and contrasting with the warm tones of various movement components and the soft texture of the micro-blasting. The decoration on the reverse dial is a fascinating marriage of technology and tradition, with laser skeletonisation complemented by hand chamfering and hand-applied lacquer – affirming Jaeger-LeCoultre’s deep commitment to tradition while constantly seeking innovative approaches to the art and science of horology. Representing approximately 14 hours of chamfering work only for the cage of the Gyrotourbillon and eight hours for the signature shape of one bridge on the reverse side, the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 is testament to La Grande Maison’s commitment to hand-craftsmanship of the highest order.
A perfect expression of art deco design creates a timeless icon
Instantly recognisable, the rectilinear geometry and harmonious proportions of the Reverso case belie the complexity of a design that incorporates the signature slide-and-swivel mechanism. The inside of the cradle is decorated with a deeply engraved sunray pattern that radiates out from a blue lacquer disc. The strong Art Deco lines, emphasised by the signature gadroons above and below the dial, provide a perfect foil for the intricate decoration of the two dials of the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179.
Comprising 382 components, including a Gyrotourbillon, a movement as complex as Calibre 179 naturally requires a generously sized case. However, with an overall thickness of 13.63mm and refined lugs, the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 is both elegant and wearable.
Crafted entirely in white gold (18k, 750/1000) and weighing nearly 30 grams, the adjustable folding buckle of the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 epitomises both technical innovation and refined elegance. Comprising 46 meticulously assembled components, this intricate mechanism incorporates a double-wheel system that allows for micro-adjustments to the nearest 0.5mm, ensuring a perfectly tailored fit. Designed to complement the exceptional artistry of the timepiece, the buckle combines ergonomic sophistication with the timeless allure of precious metal, reflecting Jaeger-LeCoultre’s dedication to both precision and comfort.
Crafted for true connoisseurs of art and mechanics, the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 is a noble expression of the 180 skills brought together under one roof at the Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre – a remarkable collaboration between watchmakers and artisans who are at the peak of their crafts.
