Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Running Fast: Service Guide

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Bobbe's account of his Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931 suddenly running fast offers a valuable case study for collectors. His experience highlights the critical decision points when a luxury timepiece malfunctions: whether to send it to the manufacturer or seek out an independent watchmaker. This article, drawn from Bobbe's detailed narrative, provides insight into diagnosing common watch issues and the benefits of finding skilled local horological expertise.

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My almost 9 nine year old Grande Reverso Ultra Thin Tribute to 1931, last week suddenly started running fast (4-5 minutes a day) and the crown made a strange sound by winding. Could it be magnitezed and could I fix it myself? Nahhhh, I don't have the instruments (yet, but more on that later). What to do: sending it to JLC (and miss it for months) , or find a watchmaker in Holland. So a few days I did some research and made some calls and did find a watchmaker. He has worked 20 years for Richemont in Amsterdam and was specialized in JLC. Nowadays he is working for two very enthusiastic dutch watchmakers, who has been working for a big AD. Some years ago they started their own business. Friday morning I made the call and the same afternoon I was welcome for a quick inspection. I made the one hour drive to their workshop with one question: could they fix the problem by themselves? I was welcomed by three watchmakers and two clients who jumped on my watch. These guys were realy interested in my watch. The watchmaker investigated my watch on a Witschi running 300 sec fast and said, "let me first try to demagnitized it". This helped. Then he opened the watch to inspect the crown and solved the problem: the gasket was 'dry' and he solved that problem too. For me it was a great pleasure to admire the 822 caliber for a short moment. The watchmaker explained how beautiful it is made. When I asked if the watch needed to be oiled he laughed and said: "it's amazing, there is enough oil, next time when you bring it for service we'll do it". All this happenend within the hour. It was a great experience to see those watchmakers work in their workshop. So much passion, friendliness and attention for a new client. They won me over. My Reverso and other watches will serviced by them.

And a drink afterwards 🥃

Key Points from the Discussion

A significant gain in time, like 4-5 minutes a day, often indicates more than just magnetization; it typically requires regulation where the set angle between the stud holder and screw regulator is adjusted. While demagnetization is a good regular practice due to pervasive electronics, it wouldn't fully correct such a large deviation.
The experience of finding a local workshop with skilled watchmakers who are enthusiastic about their craft is highly valued by collectors, especially when they are willing to explain their process and allow a glimpse of the movement.
It's common for watches approaching a decade of age, like the 1931 Tribute Reverso, to require service or at least new oil, even if not exhibiting severe issues, to maintain optimal performance.
The visible wear and patina on a well-worn timepiece, accumulated over years, are often appreciated by collectors as a testament to its consistent use and enjoyment.

The Discussion

mtvandi

Nov 21, 2021

Glad you found good and very qualified help!

TeutonicCarFan

Nov 21, 2021

Always loved this. 10 years does seem like yesterday for I remember the release. It is amazing to see all the oils and sweat built up along the case. Wonderful it gets worn!

Peevee57

Nov 21, 2021

And a very nice watch, great you can enjoy it again at its feel potential!

patrick_y

Nov 21, 2021

My 1931 Tribute Reverso is definitely not running entirely accurately neither, but not as badly off as yours. Probably needs a service (it is nearly 10 years old and has never been serviced) or at least some new oil. Thank you for your post! Seems like these guys know what they're doing!

golden hands

Nov 21, 2021

they would of re adjusted the set angle that is used between the stud holder and the screw regulator which is critical as yours seems to of had a shock and moved . now are within the set degree limits and readjusted the screw regulator to run very well now a demag would not re cover from that great amount of gain. and had to be regulated a demag regularly due to the amount of electronic equipment used these days-is a good idea seeing the small second move/flick on doing the demag knows its requi

eklektik

Nov 22, 2021

Thanks for sharing your adventure! Very happy for you you found this workshop, i am sure many members from Holland will ask their details. It is very good to have people with skills happy to show what they do! The inside of our Reversos is not often seen. When mine needs service, i really want a shot of the inside. I have never seen its movement, except on some sketches. Thanks again, and glad your nice watch ticks again at its right pace. Best, E.

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Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Running Fast: Service Guide

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