Thinking about getting my first JLC and my watchmaker happened to have one in stock for a good price. Sad to say that I'm very OCD about case condition and fear the polishing wheel very much. How does one evaluate case condition of this watch? Is there anything to look out for? Doesn't seem to be as straight forward compared to Rolex Oyster cases.... Attaching some pics here:
The SS models are scratch magnets so I’d not be surprised if it’s had a light buff at some point. Does not look overly done.
You will never find a truly unpolished watch...because they all get polished at the factory by hand...
I've had a pink gold Grand Taille size Reverso since 1992 and I can't say it is any more susceptible to scratches than any other watch. If the watch has a solid back (for engraving) it is a bit more exposed to the elements but I've not noticed any issues with my example. Obviously you can flip it over to protect the back if you are in a dicey situation in the wild. One thing you should look out for is over polishing of the three grooves on the case. When I had my Reverso sent to Switzerland for Art Deco initial engraving and enameling in 1999 it came back with messed up grooves where the polishing wheel got into the grooves and smoothed out the grained finish on the bottoms of the grooves. Had to be sent back to the factory for a replacement back and reengraving/enameling at JLC's cost. Just check it out, from your photos it looks ok but we don't have view of reverse side. A Reverso should be in everyone's collection.....they really are a classic in the world of watches. Here are a few pics of my 28 year old Reverso that I took today, still looks great and it has not been polished since 1999 when the enameling was added. No issues.
I’ve had mine since 2014 (new) and the SS definitely shows some scratches...Then again, I don’t limit it to dress use either. I agree, everyone should have one of these.
It's a Reverso Classique & the crown is correct. This model, with that style crown, was made continuously throughout the 90's and at least up to 2005. As for scratches, Reverso's don't attract them any more than any other watch. Small scratches and marks might be more visible because of the high polish on many models, but they're no different to any other watch in that respect.
I will adjust my response...However, I’m not the only owner who has remarked on the cases showing scratches. Agree its the high polish.
Thank you all for your remarks! ) I can tell you all love your Reversos very much. Perhaps I can go back next week and take even closer pictures of the watch? It doesnt look too bad yeah?
