Introduction
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Nonantième (ref. Q711252J) is not just another anniversary special – it's a carefully crafted homage to the Reverso's 90-year legacy, wrapped in a package that has collectors and flippers alike sharpening their pencils. Released in 2021, this stainless steel tribute pairs the iconic reversible case with a date complication and a power reserve indicator, all powered by a hand-wound movement that harkens back to the golden era of watchmaking. It's a chance to own a piece of horological history that also happens to hold its value remarkably well.
But beyond the romanticism, the Nonantième sits in a curious market position. It's not a limited edition – JLC produced it as a regular production piece – yet its initial hype cycle saw prices spike above retail, only to settle into a steady, stable groove. Is it a smart buy? A hold? Or a flip? We've crunched the numbers, worn it on the wrist, and dissected every detail to give you the definitive market-driven review.
From its in-house Calibre 848 to its understated silvered dial, the Nonantième is a study in restraint. But in a world of loud, oversized sports watches, this quiet elegance is exactly what makes it a sleeper hit among collectors who know their horology. Let's dive in.
Manufacture History
Founded in 1833 in the Vallée de Joux, Jaeger-LeCoultre has long been a powerhouse of high horology, producing some of the most complicated movements ever made. The Reverso, introduced in 1931, was a revolutionary solution for polo players – a watch that could be flipped to protect its crystal from impacts. Over the decades, the Reverso evolved from a sports tool to a canvas for artistic expression, with models featuring everything from enamel paintings to tourbillons. The Tribute Nonantième sits squarely in this lineage, honoring the original spirit while adding modern functionality.
Movement
At the heart of the Nonantième is the Calibre 848, a hand-wound movement that JLC developed specifically for this anniversary piece. It runs at a classic 28,800 vph (4Hz) and offers a 42-hour power reserve – not groundbreaking, but perfectly adequate for a dress watch. The movement is a joy to wind, with a smooth, tactile feel that speaks to JLC's finishing. It features a date mechanism and a power reserve indicator, cleverly placed on the reverse side of the case, so you can flip the watch to check your remaining energy. The bridges are decorated with Geneva stripes, and the edges are beveled and polished – typical of JLC's haute horlogerie standards.
Specifications
Case material is stainless steel, with a sapphire crystal on both sides (the front and the caseback). Water resistance is 30 meters – sufficient for splashes but not for swimming. The strap is a hand-stitched alligator leather with a deployant buckle, offering both comfort and security. There's no lume on the dial, which is expected for a dress watch of this caliber. The case dimensions are typical of the Reverso Tribute line – slightly elongated to accommodate the date and power reserve – but they wear elegantly on the wrist.
Wrist Feel
On the wrist, the Reverso Tribute Nonantième is a masterclass in ergonomics. The rectangular case, while larger than the original 1931 model, still hugs the wrist with a reassuring presence. The polished steel catches light beautifully, and the slim profile – thanks to the hand-wound movement – allows it to slide effortlessly under a dress cuff. The alligator leather strap is supple and breaks in quickly, while the deployant clasp ensures a secure fit without adding bulk.
Despite its 90th-anniversary pedigree, the Nonantième doesn't scream for attention. It whispers. The weight is noticeable but never cumbersome, and the balance is perfect for a rectangular watch. Whether you're at a board meeting or a gallery opening, it feels right at home. The only minor quibble is the lack of quick-release straps – you'll need a tool to swap them, but that's a small price for such elegance.
Accuracy
In real-world testing, the Calibre 848 delivers exceptional accuracy for a manual-wind movement. Expect deviations of +2 to +5 seconds per day, well within COSC standards even though the movement isn't certified. The power reserve holds true to its 42-hour rating, and the date changes crisply at midnight. For those who obsess over precision, this movement is a joy to regulate – a testament to JLC's finishing and adjustment.
Occasions
The Nonantième is a versatile dress watch that shines in formal settings – think black-tie events, weddings, and boardrooms. Its understated elegance also makes it a perfect daily companion for those who appreciate classic design. It's not a sports watch, so leave it at home for the gym or the pool, but for office-to-evening transitions, it's hard to beat.
Wrist Presence
On a scale of 1 to 5, the Nonantième earns a solid 4. It doesn't shout, but it commands respect. The rectangular case and clean dial are instantly recognizable to those in the know, making it a subtle status symbol that works in any setting. The date window at 6 o'clock adds a touch of practicality without disrupting the symmetry.
Investment Value
When the Nonantième launched in 2021, the MSRP was set at $13,600. Today, the current retail price has crept up to around $14,000, reflecting JLC's annual price adjustments. On the pre-owned market, you can find examples ranging from $10,500 to $12,500, depending on condition and box/papers. The trend is stable – it hasn't appreciated dramatically, but it hasn't dropped either. For a modern production watch, that's a good sign. The hype cycle that surrounded the 90th anniversary has settled, and the watch is now trading at a fair value.
Our hold recommendation: if you can acquire it at retail, keep it. This is a modern classic that will likely appreciate slowly as the Reverso's popularity continues to grow, especially among younger collectors who are drawn to its heritage and versatility. It's not a flip – the margins aren't there – but it's a safe store of value that you can enjoy on your wrist. Auction history is still sparse, but as the watch ages, we expect to see it appear in major sales, particularly in the pink gold variant.
Service and Maintenance
JLC recommends a service every 5 years, and a full overhaul typically costs around $600 at an authorized service center. It's essential to use JLC or a reputable independent watchmaker, as the movement is intricate and requires specialized skills. The good news is that JLC has a strong global service network, so you won't have to ship your watch across the world for routine maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Iconic reversible design with 90 years of history; in-house manual-wind movement with date and power reserve; exemplary finishing; stable resale value; comfortable and elegant on the wrist.
Cons: Manual wind requires daily winding if you wear it regularly; no lume; water resistance only 30m; leather strap will need replacement every few years.
Final Verdict
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Nonantième is a masterful blend of heritage and modern watchmaking, offering a unique date and power reserve in a case that has defined elegance for nearly a century. Its investment potential is solid – not a hyper-rising star, but a dependable asset that will reward patient collectors. If you're looking for a dress watch that tells a story and holds its value, this is it.
