The 2018 Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Small Seconds Q3978480 was the highlight of JLC's 2018 SIHH in Geneva. While the JLC Polaris collection was the designated star, true watch enthusiasts quickly pinpointed the Reverso Tribute Small Seconds as the true luxury watch standout for 2018 at La Grande Maison.

Each Reverso Tribute Small Seconds features the post-2016 Reverso case in stainless steel; the distinctive features of the '16 85th anniversary Reversos are the curved caseback for better fit and a handsome sunburst pattern inside the chassis of the watch; this engraving can be seen when the main Reverso case is pivoting.

No account of the Reverso Tribute Small Seconds is complete without acknowledging what might be the most beautiful and is certainly the most dynamic watch dial of 2018. This blue sunburst transforms dramatically - and unpredictably - from dark blue to bright purple under specific lighting conditions (likely yellow-dominant).

The effect is so convincing that one would never guess the blue and purple colors could co-exist on the same watch dial. All hour indices are appliqués, and strong faceted dauphine hands reside at center. The namesake circular "small seconds" sub-dial sits at six o'clock, and a railroad minutes track frames the dial.

Jaeger LeCoultre expands its relationship with Argentine leather specialists Casa Fagliano for the 2018 Reverso collection. While certain models will be available on straps created personally by Fagliano family members, larger numbers of watch buyers will be able to own Fagliano designed straps made by JLC's usual Parisian strap supplier.

This Reverso Tribute Small Seconds includes a blue leather strap designed by Fagliano but crafted in Europe. Each example includes a full stainless steel deployment clasp. The clasp can be removed without tools, and two pull-tab spring bars inside the strap allow the case and the clasp to be entirely separated from the strap for easy changing by the owner.

A Jaeger LeCoultre in house manual wind caliber 822/1 powers this Reverso. The movement is shaped and sized for Reverso cases of this model's dimensions, and winding action is satisfying. The movement boasts a 45 hour power reserve, a traditional 21,600 VpH beat rate, 19 jewels, and a modern free-sprung balance. While the 30-meter water resistance is typical for a dress watch, the number is extraordinary when the 50-piece Reverso case is taken into account.

This JLC Reverso Q3978480 encased in 45.4mm x 27.4mm of stainless steel surrounding a blue dial on a blue leather strap. Features include rotating case, hours, minutes, and small-seconds. The watch also measures 8.9mm in thickness.

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