Jaeger-LeCoultre

Boris
1009

• Show profile
• Show other posts

Reverso Grande GMT

Hi guys,

As I got my first JLC, a Reverso Grande GMT, a few weeks ago, I thought it would be a good idea to post a few pictures here as well, along with my impressions of this watch. Especially since the choice of the right size for a Reverso seems to be of interest on this forum, judging by recent threads.

Pictures first.

Brown OEM alligator:

Hirsch Riva:

Impressions:

- my wrist is only 16.5cm, and I thought the watch would wear a bit large, but in fact it fits just perfect. And under a shirt cuff too, as evidenced by the picture above. I had tried the Reverso Duoface, a beautiful watch, but a tad too small for my taste. As for the 986 has fantastic proportions, but it was way too big for my wrist. It's an incredible luxury to have the choice of 3 different sizes for a somewhat similar model

- I find the Grande GMT particularly versatile. It can be dressed up or down very easily. It's a good compromise between the dressiness of a Duoface and the boldness of a 986

- some find this particular model too thick compared to a GT or Duoface, but I find it incredible that a watch that boasts as many functions plus an 8 days power reserve remains as thin

- OEM strap is not the greatest - average at best. Clearly, I expect much better for a $ 10,000+ watch. JlC are not the only culprits, but I find it hard to accept that a company of such reputation would cut corners on this. I just received a custom made strap in black alligator from the Atelier du Bracelet Parisien that cost me EUR 200. There is a world of difference in quality of leather and craftmanship. I will post pictures on the watch on this bracelet in the future.

- the metal / polishing of the case is quite soft and prone to scratches. More than any other brand I have ever owned (Rolex, IWC, Panerai, Tudor,Grand Seiko). I knew this before purchasing it, as I had seen a number of scratched Reverso, but it's still surprising, especially as I tend to be careful with my watches

- having two faces, one really has the impression of owning two watches in one. The black dial gives a totally different feel than the silver one

- I really thought I'd be wearing the black face a lot, but end up wearing the silver dial most of the time. The details are just beautiful

Altogether, despite the minor reservations on the OEM strap and the softness of the polish, I am extremely happy with this watch, which I think is fantastic value for money.

Boris