Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Hybris Artistica

Some watches aim to impress, others leave a lasting imprint. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 belongs firmly in the latter category. It is a technical and visual statement piece that revives the Gyrotourbillon in a more wearable, sculptural form. Introduced in 2025 as a limited edition of just 10 pieces, this extraordinary Reverso merges multi-axis mechanical spectacle with rich Art Deco detailing, all housed in a gold case. With time displayed on both sides, a second time zone, and a mesmerizing bi-axial flying tourbillon visible from every angle, the 6196P doesn’t just tell the time, it tells a story of mechanical mastery and artistic ambition.

These models are housed in an 18k pink or white gold case measuring 51.1mm by 31.0mm, with a thickness of 13.63mm. Despite its imposing technical complexity, the proportions remain impressively wearable for a Reverso featuring a multi-axis tourbillon. The signature rectangular form is enhanced by finely polished surfaces and distinct Art Deco styling, notably the engraved sunray pattern radiating from the baseplate and gadroons filled with blue lacquer on both sides of the reversible case.
On the reverse, the rotating case reveals a second dial along with the spectacular Gyrotourbillon mechanism, visible from both sides thanks to the open construction. This 4th-generation, bi-axial tourbillon is suspended in space with no upper bridge, allowing light and reflections from the underlying mirror-polished blue lacquer disc to amplify the sensation of motion and depth. The case construction ensures the viewer can admire the mechanism from every angle, with the flipping action maintaining seamless alignment.It comes equipped with Jaeger-LeCoultre’s traditional Reverso swivel mechanism and a prominent folding clasp made up of 46 components and weighing nearly 30 grams. Water-resistance is not specified, but as with all high-complication Reversos, this is a piece made for admiration, not immersion.
Time is exhibited on both sides of the reversible case, with each dial presenting a distinct yet harmonious aesthetic. The Recto side features a minimalist layout with hour and minute hands, framed by polished gadroons inlaid with blue lacquer and surrounded by an open tourbillon aperture at 6 o’clock. The deep blue mirror-like background beneath the tourbillon reflects light dynamically, anchoring the entire composition in a vivid focal point. The absence of hour markers and the restrained color palette amplify the sculptural presence of the Gyrotourbillon.Flipping the case reveals the Verso side, which offers a second time zone with a 24-hour indication. The reverse dial maintains visual coherence with its counterpart, again highlighting the tourbillon in a prominent lower register. The balance between architectural structure and decorative finesse is heightened by engraved Art Deco motifs, extending from the dial surfaces to the cradle, all executed with a mastery of depth and symmetry. Together, the two displays reinforce the dual-purpose nature of the Reverso while showcasing the movement’s spatial choreography.
Both dials feature dauphine-style hands for clarity and refinement, with no added lume to distract from the elegance of the layout. The framing elements, lacquered gadroons, engraved lines, and the interplay of polished and matte textures create a dynamic but composed visual rhythm. As with all Hybris Artistica pieces, the dial work here blurs the line between horology and sculpture, elevating the watch beyond functional timekeeping into the realm of kinetic art.

The “Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Hybris Artistica” (References below) is powered by the in-house hand-wound mechanical movement, calibre 179 with 55 jewels, 602 components, and 28,800 vph. This 4th-generation Gyrotourbillon features a bi-axial, openworked titanium cage and a peripheral carriage mounted on ball bearings, rotating on perpendicular axes. It includes a semi-spherical balance spring and a double-anchor Gyrolab balance wheel for improved efficiency. The inner cage rotates every 16 seconds, while the outer completes a full turn every minute, also acting as a seconds indicator. Time is displayed on both sides, with an additional second time zone and 24-hour indication on the reverse. Power reserve can last up to 52 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted on the watch is a black or dark blue alligator leather strap with large square scales, both secured by an 18k gold folding clasp composed of 46 individual components. Weighing nearly 30 grams on its own, the clasp incorporates a double-wheel micro-adjustment mechanism, allowing the fit to be fine-tuned in 0.5mm increments. Despite the watch’s mechanical complexity and 51.1mm × 31.0mm case dimensions, the curved lugs and balanced proportions allow it to wear surprisingly well, making the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 as much a feat of ergonomic engineering as it is a showcase of haute horlogerie.
For more up to date information visit the official Jaeger-LeCoultre website links below.