Jaeger-LeCoultre's Reverso Stories is Back in NYC from December 6-15
Last year I had the opportunity to visit Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Reverso Stories exhibition and learn about the history, legacy and innovation of the brand’s most iconic timepiece. This included taking a “Reverso Discovery Workshop” where I learned how the Reverso’s flipping mechanism worked, and how to put the watch together. I received a certificate for my efforts, but I’m not sure I actually deserved it.
Beyond the class, the exhibition showcased Reversos across all eras, ranging from the first ever released in 1931, to the most complicated Reverso ever made, the Quadtryptique. In my view, you can’t really discuss the history of watchmaking without mentioning Jaeger-LeCoultre and the Reverso. Over the years, the Reverso has become one of JLC’s platforms for innovation, so it was great to be able to learn more about the watch in such an interactive experience.
And now, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Stories exhibition is coming back to New York City, but in a different location, with some new experiences. I will be heading to check it out, and I think you should too. It is being held at the Public Square & Gardens at Hudson Yards, from December 6–15, 2024.
This time, the story of the Reverso is being told in 4 chapters. They are, the (1) Story of an Icon, (2) Story of Style & Design, (3) Story of Innovation and (4) Story of Craftsmanship. These stories will be seen through different Reverso models, including archive pieces, and even the Quadtryptique mentioned earlier. And of course, you will be able to see the new limited edition Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Chronograph in pink gold.
Made of Makers: collaborations in art and perfumery
A new experience at the new Reverso Stories pop-up is two new artistic collaborations under Jaeger LeCoultre’s Made of Makers program. There will be a multimedia installation called Origin, by Korean artist Yiyun Kang, shown on a very large three-dimensional screen. Like the Reverso itself, this installation is a tribute to the ubiquity of the Golden Ratio in the world around us, as well as the symmetry in nature and the geometry of Art Deco design.
Additionally, JLC’s newest Made of Makers collaboration is related to fine perfumery. Scent Artist Nicolas Bonneville, in collaboration with JLC, has created three new scents for La Grande Maison. Visitors to the Reverso Stories pop-up can experience these new exclusive creations and even attempt to identify the key perfume ingredients.
Hands-on watchmaking workshops and perfumery masterclasses
If you are looking for an even more interactive experience, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s flagship boutique at 701 Madison Avenue will be hosting both watchmaking and perfumery hands-on workshops. As someone who has taken part in the JLC’s watchmaking workshops (unfortunately, I have not had the chance to take part in a perfumery workshop), it is definitely worth the time.
Reverso Stories will be held from December 6–15 at the Public Square & Gardens, Hudson Yards, at 11th Avenue and Hudson Boulevard East, New York City, NY 10001. The event is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm and Sunday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. Guided tours, lasting approximately 30 minutes, are available.