Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Hybris Mechanica Calibre 185: A Masterpiece of Complication

In commemoration of the 90th anniversary of the Reverso, Jaeger-LeCoultre unveils the Reverso Hybris Mechanica Calibre 185 Quadriptyque, a horological miracle limited to ten fortunate collectors. This extraordinary timepiece stands as a testament to Jaeger-LeCoultre's 90 years of Reverso legacy, boasting a set of 11 intricate complications meticulously crafted from 800 individual components.

 

Photo source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

 

With dimensions of 51.2mm by 31mm and a height of 15.15mm, the Calibre 185 Quadriptyque retains a wearable profile, although slightly larger than its predecessors. This size accommodates the complexity of the four-faced movement, which serves as the beating heart of this exceptional timepiece.

 

Photo source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

 

While some of the complications featured in the Calibre 185 have been seen in prior Jaeger-LeCoultre models, this watch can be viewed as a culmination of the brand's finest achievements in watchmaking. The seamless integration of these intricate functions showcases the pinnacle of Jaeger-LeCoultre's craftsmanship.

 

Photo source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

 

The aesthetic choices, including Clous de Paris guilloche and blue lacquer, exhibit a refined elegance. However, the inclusion of more artisanal elements like fired enamel could further elevate the watch's visual appeal, aligning it with its premium price of €1.35 million.

 

Despite its ambitious price point, the exclusivity and desirability of this timepiece are heightened by its limited production, ensuring each of the ten owners possesses a truly rare and extraordinary horological masterpiece.

 

Photo source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

 

The Calibre 185 is ingeniously designed with four distinct faces. The case houses the majority of the movement, including the instantaneous perpetual calendar, timekeeping train, and chiming mechanism. Below, in the cradle, an additional 105 components are dedicated to the celestial indications centered around the moon, offering comprehensive astronomical information for both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

 

Photo source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

 

The first face presents a flying tourbillon at seven o’clock, alongside the perpetual calendar featuring day, big date, month, and leap year indicator. This instantaneous mechanism ensures seamless transitions at midnight, vital for driving the astronomical indications.

 

On the reverse of the case, a secondary dial displays hours and minutes via a jumping disc, ensuring precise and legible timekeeping.

 

Photo source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

 

The minute repeater function, activated by a discreet slide, benefits from Jaeger-LeCoultre's patented innovations, providing an impeccable auditory experience.

 

The inner face of the cradle reveals the Northern Hemisphere moon phase, lunar month, moon apogee, and perigee, as well as the year indication. This comprehensive celestial information caters to astronomy enthusiasts and navigators alike.

 

The final face, displayed on the back of the cradle, mirrors the Southern Hemisphere moon phase, completing the comprehensive lunar cycle.

 

Photo source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

 

In a groundbreaking feat, the Calibre 185 boasts three lunar cycles: synodic, draconic, and anomalistic, providing unparalleled astronomical information in a single timepiece.

 

The exquisite attention to detail in the movement, from the engraved moon phases to the representation of lunar cycles, solidifies the Calibre 185's position as a horological masterpiece.

 

Undoubtedly, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Hybris Mechanica Calibre 185 Quadriptyque is not a watch for everyday wear, but more of a statement piece. It transcends traditional grand complications, offering a wearable testament to Jaeger-LeCoultre's 90 years of Reverso legacy. This horological triumph is a fitting tribute to the iconic model's enduring appeal and innovation.

 

Photo source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

 

In conclusion, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Hybris Mechanica Calibre 185 Quadriptyque stands as a pinnacle of watchmaking artistry, showcasing a breathtaking array of complications within a meticulously crafted timepiece. Its limited production ensures that owning one of the ten available pieces is a truly exceptional experience. While the retail price may be ambitious, the Calibre 185 remains a testament to Jaeger-LeCoultre's legacy of precision and innovation.