We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
Perfect for black-tie dinners, gallery openings and refined weekends, this circa 1997 Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso in steel and gold adds discreet vintage elegance. The reversible case brings a playful twist, while the reliable quartz movement keeps effortless time from day to night.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What defines this Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Quartz 20mm (circa 1997)? A: It is a Reverso Classique reference 250.5.08 featuring a two-tone stainless steel and yellow gold case and bracelet, a white dial with black Arabic numerals, and a reversible case. This example is powered by a Swiss quartz movement and is rated in Very Good condition with light traces of use and shiny hardware showing light scratches. It currently fits a wrist up to 16cm and is sold without original accessories (box/papers).
Q: Is it quartz and what maintenance does it require? A: Yes—being quartz, it keeps precise time and needs a battery change roughly every 2–3 years. We recommend professional battery replacement so the case seals can be inspected and replaced if needed. A full service every 5–10 years helps ensure long-term reliability.
Q: Is the watch water-resistant? A: Reverso models of this era are typically rated to 3 bar (30 metres). As a vintage watch, we cannot guarantee current water resistance without a recent pressure test. Please treat it as splash-resistant only and avoid swimming, showering, or submersion.
Q: Does it have a sapphire crystal? A: Reverso Classique quartz references from the 1990s are generally fitted with scratch-resistant sapphire crystals, offering superior durability versus acrylic. This two-tone 250.5.08 belongs to that family and is typically equipped accordingly.
Q: How does the reversible case work and what is it for? A: The case slides horizontally within its carriage; once released, it flips 180° and clicks securely back into place. The design was created to protect the crystal during polo, and the solid reverse side is often used for personal engraving.
Q: Will the watch fit my wrist? A: This piece is sized for wrists up to 16cm. The integrated two-tone bracelet can be shortened by removing links. Additional links are not included but may be sourced if you need extra length.
Q: How do I set the time on this quartz Reverso? A: Gently pull the crown to the hand-setting position and rotate to set the time. Push the crown back in firmly afterwards to maintain the case seal. Avoid changing time while the watch is wet and handle the reversible case on a clean, soft surface to prevent scratches.
Q: What is included with the purchase? A: This listing is “no accessories,” meaning no original box or papers are included. Your purchase is backed by A Retro Tale’s full authentication guarantee, secure insured shipping, and our 12‑month warranty covering the movement’s functional performance.
Q: Any care tips for the two-tone steel and gold finish? A: Wipe the case and bracelet with a soft, lint-free cloth after wear, avoid abrasive cleaners or chemicals, and store the watch separately from other jewellery to reduce scratching. If polishing is desired, use a professional service familiar with preserving factory finishes.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Watches
/ Women's Watches
4 642 £
• Two-tone stainless steel and gold case and bracelet
• Reversible case
• White dial with black Arabic numerals
• Quartz movement
• Circa 1997
