Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 Pegasus: A Mythological Masterpiece
The Flying Horse Takes Flight in Pink Gold
Jaeger-LeCoultre has unveiled the Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 Pegasus, a breathtaking tribute to the brand's legendary multi-axis Gyrotourbillon and its exceptional decorative craftsmanship. Limited to just five pieces worldwide, this 18k pink gold masterpiece combines the iconic swivelling Reverso case with hand-engraved mythology and a second-generation gyrotourbillon mechanism.
A Legacy of Technical Innovation
The Gyrotourbillon first debuted in 2004 inside a round Master case, before being adapted to the Reverso's distinctive rectangular format in 2008. The 2016 85th anniversary edition introduced the thinner calibre 179, which forms the heart of this latest creation. The multi-axis tourbillon rotates within an ultra-light hand-bevelled titanium cage, with the inner cage completing a full rotation every 16 seconds while the peripheral carriage turns once per minute — doubling as a seconds indicator.
Both the front and reverse dials feature a large aperture at 6 o'clock showcasing the tourbillon. The front displays hours and minutes in a blue lacquered sub-dial, while the reverse offers a skeletonised second time zone with a 24-hour day/night indicator.
Métiers Rares: The Art of Hand-Engraving
The rear case of the 18k pink gold case features a hand-engraved depiction of Pegasus, the winged horse of Greek mythology, set against a dreamy background of clouds. The cloud motif extends to the front dial, where 50 hollowed-out areas are hand-filled with different shades of blue lacquer. Each element is executed by master artisans at the Manufacture's Métiers Rares Atelier.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Case | 31mm × 51.1mm × 12.41mm — 18k pink gold |
| Movement | JLC Calibre 179 — manual-winding, twin-axis tourbillon, 385 components, 52 jewels |
| Power Reserve | 40 hours |
| Frequency | 21,600 vph (3Hz) |
| Dial | Blue lacquer, hand-engraved clouds, skeletonised bridges |
| Strap | Blue alligator leather, pink gold folding clasp |
| Reference | Q39424E5 |
| Limited Edition | 5 pieces |
| Price | In excess of CHF 650,000 |
Why This Matters for Collectors
The Reverso Hybris Artistica Pegasus represents the pinnacle of haute horlogerie within the Jaeger-LeCoultre catalogue. It marries three distinct art forms — the Gyrotourbillon complication, hand-engraving, and Grand Feu lacquer — inside an iconic case that has remained virtually unchanged since 1931. For collectors seeking a truly unique piece, this limited edition of five is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Gyrotourbillon?
A: The Gyrotourbillon is a multi-axis tourbillon developed by Jaeger-LeCoultre, featuring two independent rotating cages that counteract gravity's effect on the balance spring in three dimensions.
Q: How does the Pegasus differ from previous Reverso Gyrotourbillons?
A: The Pegasus edition features a new hand-engraved pink gold case with a Pegasus motif, blue lacquer cloud decoration on the dial, and the fourth evolution of the calibre 179 movement.
Q: What is the water resistance?
A: The Reverso Hybris Artistica Calibre 179 Pegasus is rated to 30 metres water resistance.
Sources: Monochrome Watches, Jaeger-LeCoultre Official
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