Jaeger-LeCoultre is often called the watchmakers' watchmaker: for much of the 20th century it supplied movements to other famous brands. Under its own name it is best known for the Reverso, the watch with a case that turns over. We have 247 Jaeger-LeCoultre watches in stock, from $2,950 to $87,955.
A short history
Antoine LeCoultre opened his workshop in 1833 in Le Sentier, in the Vallée de Joux, the cradle of Swiss complicated watchmaking. The company grew into one of the largest manufactures in the valley, making nearly everything in-house. Its association with the Paris-based Edmond Jaeger led to the Jaeger-LeCoultre name, used from the 1930s.
The Reverso appeared in 1931, designed for polo players whose watch crystals broke during matches: the case slides and flips to protect the dial. Other landmarks include the Atmos clock, the Memovox alarm watches and the Master Control of 1992, launched with a 1,000-hour testing programme. Jaeger-LeCoultre has been part of the Richemont group since 2000.
The collections
Reverso. Rectangular, Art Deco and reversible. Monoface models have a plain or engraved back; Duoface models show a second time zone on the back. In stock: 80, from $4,355.
Master Control and Master. Classic round dress watches with three hands, date, moon phase or chronograph. In stock: 21 Master Control and 39 other Master models.
Polaris. A sports collection revived in 2018, inspired by the Memovox Polaris alarm dive watch of 1968. In stock: 23.
Rendez-Vous. Jaeger-LeCoultre's ladies' line, often with a day-night or moon display and gem-set bezels. In stock: 13 Rendez-Vous Night & Day.
Master Compressor. A sportier, larger Master line from the 2000s. In stock: 7.
What Jaeger-LeCoultre costs
Our prices run from $2,950 to $87,955; new or unworn pieces start at $4,930 and pre-owned at $2,950. Quartz Reversos and simple Master Control models are the entry points; complications such as perpetual calendars and tourbillons are at the top.
References we stock most
Jaeger-LeCoultre references start with Q followed by seven digits.
- Q3988482 — 3 in stock, from $8,755
- Q3848422 — 3 in stock, from $7,480
- Q2608140 — 2 in stock, from $5,675
- Q4128420 — 2 in stock, from $7,480
Choosing a Reverso size
Reverso cases are measured by width and height. Small models (about 21 × 34 mm) suit slim wrists and ladies; Classic Medium (about 24 × 40 mm) is the most versatile; Large and Duoface models wear like a 40 mm round watch. See our guide to choosing a dress watch.
What to check on a pre-owned Jaeger-LeCoultre
- The Reverso mechanism. The case should slide and flip smoothly and lock firmly in both positions.
- Quartz or mechanical. Some Reversos are quartz; the listing states the movement.
- Engravings. A personal engraving on the back of a Reverso is common and usually lowers the price.
- Strap and buckle. Most JLC dress watches are on leather; check that the original buckle or folding clasp is included.
- Papers and service. See our pre-owned checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the Reverso flip over?
It was designed in 1931 for polo players: turning the case protected the crystal and dial during a match.
Is Jaeger-LeCoultre a luxury brand?
Yes. It is one of the oldest manufactures in the Vallée de Joux and makes its own movements, including highly complicated ones.
What is the cheapest Jaeger-LeCoultre?
Quartz Reversos and simple Master Control models are usually the entry point. Our Jaeger-LeCoultre watches start at $2,950.
Where is Jaeger-LeCoultre made?
In Le Sentier, in the Vallée de Joux, Switzerland, where Antoine LeCoultre opened his workshop in 1833.
