Jaeger-LeCoultre was thrilled to host its ambassador, Kim Woo-Bin, at the Manufacture in the Vallée de Joux, providing him with a firsthand look at the intricate craftsmanship and technical expertise involved in the creation of the iconic Reverso.
Hailing from Seoul, the actor has garnered immense popularity across Asia, showcasing his captivating talent in a range of genres, from romantic comedy to drama and action films, in both acclaimed television series and blockbuster movies. Beyond his successful acting career, Kim Woo-Bin has been proudly representing Jaeger-LeCoultre as an ambassador since the start of 2021.
“We are honoured that Kim Woo-Bin made time in his demanding schedule to come and visit us at the Manufacture, our home in the Vallée de Joux”, says Catherine Rénier, CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre. “As someone with great intellectual curiosity, he was fascinated to learn about our Maison’s history, and the direct insight he gained into the intricacies of watchmaking and his hands-on experience of the Atelier d’Antoine clearly left a deep impression.”
In the short film titled “Behind the Walls,” Kim Woo-Bin’s day at the Manufacture is documented as he explores the production workshops, delves into the Maison’s Heritage Gallery, and gains insight into the masterful skills of the artisans at the Atelier des Métiers Rares. Here, he witnesses the artisans’ creative expressions on the blank case-back of a Reverso, showcasing the ideal canvas it provides. To conclude his visit, the actor participates in a Reverso Discovery Workshop at the Atelier d’Antoine. Guided by an expert from the Manufacture, he learns about the fascinating journey of the swivelling watch since its inception in 1931 and, under tutelage, assembles a Reverso case.
“Since first discovering mechanical watches I have been intrigued by their intricate mechanisms and curious to know how they are made – but this visit to the Manufacture was beyond anything I expected,” says Kim Woo-Bin. “Discovering so many different skills under one roof, the pleasure that the watchmakers took in explaining their work, their incredible precision, the expertise in decorative crafts that is handed down from one generation to the next – it was an amazing experience and has made me feel an even stronger attachment to the watches that I wear.”
The actor’s visit concluded with the Manufacture presenting him with a special gift—a Reverso watch personalized with a unique message engraved on the case-back. The inscription, “To Kim Woo-Bin – a memory to cherish forever – Jaeger-LeCoultre,” adds a distinctive touch, making the watch uniquely his own.
“This watch is special to me in a way that no other timepiece can be,” says Kim Woo-Bin. “Every time I wear it, the words will remind me of a day that was truly exceptional, not only in terms of what I learnt but also for the spirit and passion of everyone I met in the Manufacture, who welcomed me with such warmth and kindness.”
For more information, please visit Jaeger-LeCoultre.com.