Jaeger-LeCoultre

Jaeger-LeCoultre introduces three limited-edition Reverso Tribute Enamel watches in honor of Venice, coinciding with its participation in the Homo Faber Biennial exhibition. These exclusive pieces feature intricate miniature reproductions of Claude Monet’s paintings from his ‘Venice Series’ on the case-back.

Monet’s series, inspired by Venice’s architecture and light, was created during a prolific 10-week stay in 1908. Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Métiers Rares™ Atelier brings this artistry to life, combining miniature painting, enamelling, and guillochage. The challenge of translating Monet’s large works onto a small surface required exceptional skill, including 14 layers of enamel and multiple firings to achieve depth, texture, and color.

“The Doge’s Palace,” painted by Monet from a gondola on the Grand Canal at 8:00 am, captures the serene beauty of morning light on the water. Monet once remarked that “the palace…was just an excuse for painting the atmosphere.” Recreating the luminous quality of this artwork required Jaeger-LeCoultre’s enameller to dedicate nearly 70 hours to the task. The dial features a lozenge guilloché pattern that reflects changing light and shadow when viewed from different angles, echoing Monet’s interest in light’s interaction with water. Enhanced by layers of rich blue grand feu enamel, the intricate geometric design consists of 981 lines, each needing five passes of the lathe, totaling 4,905 passages in an eight-hour process requiring exceptional skill.

Limited to 10 pieces each, these watches embody a tribute to Venice and a fusion of fine watchmaking and decorative arts.