Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface Small Seconds Q398847J Black/Silver Dial

Opening Context
The Reverso began with a practical idea: a case that could turn over to protect its dial. Over time, Jaeger-LeCoultre transformed that ingenious architecture into something far more versatile, using the reversible case to accommodate additional displays and complications. The Reverso Tribute Duoface Small Seconds Ref. Q398847J is a particularly complete expression of that evolution. One side remains restrained and almost formal, while the reverse introduces a second time zone and day/night indication, effectively giving the wearer two distinct watches within the same unmistakable Reverso form.

Why This Reference Matters
The appeal of the Duoface lies in how naturally its functionality follows the original Reverso concept. The black sunray-brushed recto dial is deliberately restrained, with applied rhodium-plated baton markers, Dauphine hands and small seconds at 6 o’clock. Turning the case reveals a silvered sunray-brushed verso dial with its own set of baton markers and Dauphine hands, accompanied by a second time zone and day/night indication. Both displays are driven by the manual-winding Calibre 854, allowing the reversible architecture to become mechanically useful rather than merely decorative.

On the Wrist
At 28.3 mm by 47 mm, the Q398847J has the elongated proportions that define the Reverso. Its relatively narrow width keeps the watch elegant, while the 47 mm length gives it a clear architectural presence along the wrist. Stainless steel makes this interpretation particularly versatile, and the contrast between the black recto and silvered verso creates two noticeably different personalities. The black leather strap and stainless steel folding clasp keep the overall presentation restrained. There is also the tactile pleasure unique to the Reverso: sliding the case from its carriage, turning it over and revealing an entirely different dial remains an integral part of wearing the watch.

Condition & Transparency
This example is configured with a 28.3 mm by 47 mm stainless steel reversible case, black leather strap and stainless steel folding clasp. The black sunray-brushed recto dial features applied rhodium-plated baton hour markers, Dauphine hands and small seconds at 6 o’clock, while the silvered sunray-brushed verso dial incorporates matching markers and hands with a second time zone and day/night indicator. It is powered by the manual-winding Calibre 854, with an approximately 42-hour power reserve. No specific information regarding cosmetic condition, polishing history, box and papers, provenance or previous servicing has been provided, and these details therefore remain unconfirmed rather than assumed.

Why It Belongs in a Collection
The Reverso Tribute Duoface suits a collector who appreciates watches where complication and design are genuinely connected. The second time zone is useful for travel, but more importantly, it makes full use of the reversible architecture rather than adding functionality to an otherwise conventional case. Within a broader collection, the Q398847J offers considerable range: one side is dark and restrained, the other lighter and more technical, while both remain unmistakably Jaeger-LeCoultre. The hand-wound movement adds another layer of interaction to a watch already defined by physical engagement.

Closing
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface Small Seconds Ref. Q398847J demonstrates why the Reverso remains such an enduring design. Its reversible case is not simply a historical signature but an integral part of the complication, allowing two contrasting dials and two time zones to coexist within one elegant form. With its manual-winding Calibre 854 and carefully balanced proportions, it is a Reverso that rewards interaction as much as observation.

Specifications

• Case Size: 28.3 mm x 47 mm
  
• Material: Stainless Steel
  
• Dial: Black Sunray-Brushed Recto Dial with Applied Rhodium-Plated Baton Hour Markers, Dauphine Hands and Small Seconds at 6 o’Clock; Silvered Sunray-Brushed Verso Dial with Applied Rhodium-Plated Baton Hour Markers, Dauphine Hands, Second Time Zone and Day/Night Indicator
  
• Strap: Black Leather Strap with Stainless Steel Folding Clasp
  
• Power Reserve: 42 Hours
  
• Movement: Manual-Winding (Calibre 854)

Shipments are delivered under Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) terms, with duties and taxes payable by the recipient.