Eagle-eyed watch spotters noticed Jaeger-LeCoultre (JLC) Reverso models gracing the Met Gala red carpet, and those pieces have now been officially unveiled as part of the Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds “Or Deco” and Cocktail collection. In essence, the lineup includes five watches across three color variations, the white gold Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds “Or Deco” with standard gadroons, the pink gold Reverso Tribute Monoface “Or Deco” Solo Tempo, and three gem-set Cocktail references. But once you dive deeper into the idea, execution, and craftsmanship behind the collection, you begin to appreciate just how cleverly it plays with the artistic codes of the Art Deco movement.
For me, the clear winners are undoubtedly the gem-set versions, with all three examples taking the top three spots without even trying. There is something hypnotic about the contrast between the cool restraint of precious metal and the fiery sparkle of 46 deep-hued gems. This effect is further enhanced by the 18k matte-grained dial, polished hour markers, dauphine hands, and railway minute track, all of which stay perfectly true to the subtle elegance of the design. The vertical orientation of the rubies, sapphires, and emeralds mirrors the Reverso’s upright case shape, while the gem setting curves beautifully around the sides of the case, giving the watch a more sculptural, jewel-like presence. The ruby edition comes with pink gold while the sapphire and emerald are white gold.
Another visual detail that ties the whole look together is the Milanese strap, an incredibly fluid gold mesh bracelet woven from approximately 10 meters of solid gold thread. The result is the supple, fabric-like flexibility of a classic 1930s cocktail piece, finished with an integrated sliding clasp that keeps it firmly on the wrist. The two models without gemstones are the white gold Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds “Or Deco” with standard gadroons and the pink gold Reverso Tribute Monoface “Or Deco” Solo Tempo. The latter is not only smaller than the other four versions, but also the only model without a small seconds display. Everything else remains beautifully in place on this pink gold piece, from the matte-grained dial to the railway minute track.
The stunning Monoface collection is powered by the Calibre 822, a manual-winding movement with a 42-hour power reserve. The swiveling case comprises 50 components, measures 7.56 mm thick, its Monoface design offers endless possibilities for personalisation with its distinctive Art Deco. As for pricing, the three Cocktail references are each limited to 30 pieces, with prices available on request. The Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds “Or Deco” is limited to 200 pieces and priced at $63,000, while the Solo Tempo is non-limited and priced at approximately $52,000.