Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 Pegasus: A Mythical Masterpiece
A New Chapter in the Reverso Legacy
Jaeger-LeCoultre has unveiled the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 Pegasus, a breathtaking limited edition of just five pieces that combines the Maison's most advanced tourbillon technology with exquisite hand-engraving artistry. Announced on May 25, 2026, this latest evolution of the iconic swivelling Reverso case pays homage to the watch's equestrian roots through the mythological winged horse Pegasus.
The Gyrotourbillon: Two Decades of Innovation
The multi-axis Gyrotourbillon first appeared in a Jaeger-LeCoultre wristwatch in 2004, housed within a large round Master case. Four years later, the complication was adapted to fit the rectangular Reverso case, and in 2016, an 85th anniversary edition debuted with the thinner calibre 179. The Pegasus represents the fourth generation of this extraordinary mechanism.
The tourbillon features two independently rotating cages: an inner titanium cage completing one revolution every 16 seconds, and a peripheral carriage rotating once per minute. Both are mounted on ball bearings for frictionless motion, and a mirror-polished blue lacquer disc on the supporting cradle amplifies the visual spectacle.
Artisanal Craftsmanship
The 18k pink gold case (31mm x 51.1mm x 12.41mm) serves as a canvas for Jaeger's master engravers at the Métiers Rares Atelier. The winged Pegasus is hand-engraved in relief on the rounded case sides, set against a dreamy cloudscape that extends to the fixed lugs. Each of the 50 hollowed-out cloud sections on the front dial is hand-filled with different shades of blue lacquer.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Case | 31mm x 51.1mm x 12.41mm - 18k pink gold |
| Dial | Front: blue lacquered sub-dial with tourbillon at 6 o'clock Reverse: skeletonized with second time zone and 24-hour indicator |
| Movement | Calibre 179 - manual-winding, 385 components, 52 jewels |
| Tourbillon | Dual-axis: inner cage 16 sec, peripheral carriage 60 sec |
| Power Reserve | 40 hours |
| Water Resistance | 30 meters |
| Strap | Blue alligator leather with pink gold folding clasp |
| Reference | Q39424E5 |
| Price | Upon request (in excess of CHF 650,000) |
Why the Reverso Remains Iconic
Originally designed in 1931 for polo players in India, the Reverso's swivelling case has become one of watchmaking's most recognizable silhouettes. The Pegasus edition demonstrates how Jaeger-LeCoultre continues to push the boundaries of what this Art Deco icon can contain, from Duoface dual-time displays to haute horlogerie complications like the Gyrotourbillon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pieces of the Reverso Hybris Artistica Pegasus will be made?
The Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 Pegasus is limited to just five pieces worldwide.
What makes the Gyrotourbillon in the Pegasus unique?
The dual-axis tourbillon features two independently rotating cages at different speeds (16 seconds and 60 seconds), providing exceptional positional coverage and precision. This is the fourth evolution of the complication in the Reverso case since its 2008 adaptation.
What is the price of the Reverso Hybris Artistica Pegasus?
Pricing is available upon request, with the watch retailing for in excess of CHF 650,000, reflecting its extremely limited production and artisanal craftsmanship.
According to Monochrome Watches, this model represents the pinnacle of Jaeger-LeCoultre's technical and decorative capabilities, merging the Maison's watchmaking heritage with exceptional artistic craftsmanship.
For more information on JLC watchmaking techniques, visit our complete Jaeger-LeCoultre guide.