Before diving into the Tribute to 1948, or TT1948 for short, we have to delve a little deeper and start from the genesis of the Tribute range, the Tribute to 1931. Released in 2011 to great fanfare, the TT1931 was the perfect Reverso for the modern ages. It featured a new Ultra Thin case measuring 7.3mm thick, 46.8mm lug to lug, and 26.4mm across, was powered by an in-house manual wind 822/2 movement, with a dial that was a near-perfect replica of the very first Reverso released in, you guessed it, 1931.

After releasing several variations on the 1931 design, including the stunning Bleu, Rouge and Chocolate versions, JLC once again wowed collectors with the 2014 release of the TT1948 as a boutique-only piece. Featuring the same case and movement as the TT1931, it gained a stunning white dial, blue markers and a sub seconds at 6.

The dial is what sets the TT1948 apart. The white textured dial looks magnificent under light, and very subdued otherwise. The text ‘Fabrique En Suisse’ is also featured exclusively on this dial.

While other combinations of the same or similar attributes can be seen elsewhere on the Tribute series, none have the combination of double hash markers at 12, sub-seconds at six, textured dial, blue markers and ‘Fabrique En Suisse’ on the dial. For our eyes, they come together in perfect harmony and create a balance and depth not seen on other Reversos.

As amazing as the dial is, it’s the case that elevates the 1931 and 1948 series above all others for us. It’s perfectly proportioned, being large enough to feel modern and suit contemporary tastes, while the 7.3mm thickness is thin enough to slip under any cuff, but not so thin as to feel unsubstantial on the wrist.

Build quality is fantastic, and the fit and finish for the price point is first-class.

The brushing on the case back uses a lovely grain, and is superbly executed. In fact, the whole watch feels very jewel-like, and it feels as though you’re holding something very special in your hand.

The underside of the mid-case is perfect for engraving.

This Reverso Classic engraved by David Riccardo, and owned by Watchmase from the Watchuseek forums, shows just what can be created with these blank canvasses. How cool is that engraving??! A complete juxtaposition to the Reverso, and it looks amazing.

The Tribute is topped off with a lovely tang buckle and beautiful Alligator strap, though don’t be afraid to dress your Reverso down. They’re far more versatile than most people give them credit for.

With purportedly only around 108 pieces being produced, these rare pieces do not pop up for sale too often.

WV.