Short Answer
A fake Reverso Tribute Small Seconds is a copy of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Small Seconds, steel reference Q397848J. It keeps the rectangular swivel case and the small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock. It does not keep the real case thickness, the real hinge tolerance, or the real movement. Copies sell from $200 to $900. The real watch carries a retail price in the high four figures.
Real Specs
- Case: 45.6 mm x 27.4 mm, stainless steel
- Thickness: 8.5 mm
- Movement: manual-wind Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 822
- Power reserve: 45 hours
- Jewels: 21
- Water resistance: 30 m
- Dial: sunray blue, applied baton markers, small seconds at 6 o'clock
- Strap: alligator leather with a steel folding clasp
Where Copies Differ
Thickness is the first check. Copy cases run 1 mm to 2 mm over 8.5 mm because the copy movement needs the space.
The swivel is the second check. A real Reverso case turns with light finger pressure and stops at 90 degrees. Copy hinges show play at the pivot and a looser click.
The small seconds hand is the third check. Real hands are polished on the flanks and chamfered at the edge. Copy hands are stamped flat.
The caseback is the fourth check. Engraving on the real watch has crisp walls. Copy engraving is shallow laser work.
The dial is the weakest tell. The Tribute dial carries no brand name, so a copy printer has no logo to get wrong. Check the sub-dial depth and the marker edges instead.
What US Law Says
18 U.S.C. 2320 sets a prison term of up to 10 years for a first offense that involves trafficking in counterfeit goods. 19 U.S.C. 1526 lets US Customs and Border Protection seize and destroy imported copies. A shipment from an overseas seller can end in a seizure letter and no refund.
Checks Before You Pay
- Ask for the reference number and a photo of the caseback.
- Ask for a video of the case swiveling on its cradle.
- Ask for movement photos with the back removed.
- Measure thickness with calipers in a face to face sale.
- Compare the listing price to current dealer listings. Prices move.
What Nobody Can Confirm
Replica suppliers change parts without notice. Movement sources, case alloy and dial finish vary between batches sold under one model name. A seller who quotes a fixed spec for a batch cannot prove it. Photos of one unit do not describe the next unit.