Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso: Reflecting on Sentimental Value and Enduring Appeal

Mr.Gatsby · 2020-03-25T23:37:33Z

Mr.Gatsby reflects on the enduring value of his Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso watches, exploring sentimental connections and the impact of specific eras on their appeal.

Mr.Gatsby

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

34 replies4364 views5 photos

Mr.Gatsby's reflection on the subjective value of luxury watches, particularly his cherished Jaeger-LeCoultre Reversos, resonates deeply in an era where priorities are being re-evaluated. His post highlights how sentimental value, camaraderie, and specific moments in a brand's history can elevate certain timepieces beyond mere material possessions. This piece offers a timely perspective on what truly makes a watch indispensable to a collector.

34 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Business is slow in a lot of ways but also frantic in many ways. People are rushing to sell, while buyers are holding back. The economy takes a real hit, livelihoods get disrupted but out of a sudden things become clear. We can do away with a lot unnecessary frills in our lives. We revert back to the basics as per Maslow’s hierarchy. Everything else above that is luxury, a blessing and stuff we can do away with.

An early morning discussion with a mate today puts things into perspective. What do we spend our money on? On things we value. Today this question is more relevant than ever. In the case for watches, things become increasingly clear. Those that don’t hold value (and value is subjective) to me are quickly dropped out. Subjective value > quality > quantity. That sort a thing. I’ve mentioned before, that there are many aspects to watch’s value. One of them would be sentimental value.

A quick visit to the local strap maker this AM eggs me on to write a post on two very special Reversos that I’ve purchased about a decade ago, back in the days where Jerome Lambert sat at the helm where JLC witnessed glory days. The watches remind me of my friends, the camaraderie and a special moment in JLC history where we were banging all the right notes creating beautiful symphony. Fast forward to 2020 and I must say if these two watches were to be offered to me, I’d have bought it for the same reasons as I did before.

To my friends Guillermo, Milan, Nico and this wonderful watch community, my thoughts are with all of you.

Some pics on my new straps:

Have a great week you all.

Best,
Gatsby

Key Points from the Discussion

The current global situation emphasizes the importance of evaluating what is truly essential, extending even to daily conveniences like dishwashers, and reinforcing a 'back to basics' mindset.
The journey of selecting a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso involves navigating a wide array of case sizes and dial variations, with specific models like the Tribute with its opaline dial presenting unexpected size differences compared to the Tribute Blue.
Among the limited edition Reverso models, the Ceniceros stands out for its exceptional design, with elements like its engravings, numeral hue, and sword hands considered unimprovable, making it a highly coveted piece.
The sentiment regarding the re-evaluation of luxury items and the appreciation for genuine connections with individuals like Jerome Lambert, Guille, and Milan, who are recognized as gentlemen and friends, is a shared perspective.
The two Jaeger-LeCoultre Reversos featured are considered among the best-looking models available, underscoring their aesthetic appeal and desirability within the collector community.

The Discussion

Mr.Gatsby

Mar 25, 2020

Ignore the ramblings, enjoy the photos

And pardon the incoherent thinking. Thinking fast and slow at the same time is pretty difficult

amanico

Mar 26, 2020

No way! This is far from being ramblings! [nt]

amanico

Mar 26, 2020

Thanks for this superb post, my friend. The Ceniceros is a friendly page of the JLC Book. A duo of Reversos with a great friendship story behind.

I can only share your point of view on your analysis about luxury items, necessary things in these hard times... Moreover, I would also like to thank you about the nice words and call about Jerome Lambert, Guille and Milan. They are real gentlemen, and great friends. Best, Nicolas

Mr.Gatsby

Mar 26, 2020

Thanks mon ami

Really enjoying this pair today. One more shot in the evening sun:

amanico

Mar 26, 2020

The Steel one is my favorite. I fell in love with it when I could see it in the metal a few years after its release. [nt]

al.slater

May 8, 2020

Sublime...

Out of all the limited editions of the reverso, the Ceniceros always has struck me as being even more other worldly in terms of not having any elements one would or could improve upon.. whether the engravings to the caseback, the hue of the numerals, sword hands ... all ... just ... so. Envious indeed of a pair of these, but content to mooch along with a Duo and a Latitude. al

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Jaeger-LeCoultre forum with 34 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →