Jaeger-LeCoultre Deep Sea Alarm E 857 Europe: A Collector's Crown Jewel
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Jaeger-LeCoultre Deep Sea Alarm E 857 Europe: A Collector's Crown Jewel

By amanico · Jun 1, 2020 · 20 replies
amanico
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
20 replies3189 views9 photos
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Amanico, a respected collector, shares an intimate look at his Jaeger-LeCoultre Deep Sea Alarm E 857 Europe version, a timepiece he considers the pinnacle of his collection. His post delves into the watch's unique appeal, from its historical significance as the first alarm diving watch to its aesthetic purity and sensual design. This article explores why this specific reference holds such a special place for him and in the broader collecting community.

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The Deep Sea Alarm, Europe or American, is the crown of my collection. This watch has everything I like: 

- Originality: The first alarm diving watch. The Vulcain Nautical came two years after ( 1959 for the Deep Sea Alarm ). 

- Sensuality: Look at this dial, pure, simple, but how sensual with this patina. And the curves of the case... And the bezel. 

- Beauty. The pictures say it all. 

- Purity, with the discrete wording on the dial. 



















The only issue is to find one, as from 1959 to 1962, very few were made with this dial configuration, most of them were coming with the US dial. 

It's on my wrist last Saturday and it will share the whole month of June with the US version and the Duomètre à Chronographe. 

And it is a great way to celebrate its 11th birthday. Indeed, it 's been with me since... Late June 2009! 

Best,

Nicolas.

About the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Ref. E857

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox reference E857 is a notable example of the brand's alarm watch production from the mid-20th century. This particular reference is distinguished by its larger case size compared to earlier Memovox models, reflecting a shift in design preferences during its era of production. It maintains the characteristic dual crown configuration, with one crown for time setting and winding, and the other for setting and winding the alarm function.

This reference typically features a stainless steel case, though gold-capped or solid gold variants were also produced. The case diameter measures 37mm, a substantial size for its period. It houses the automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 825, an important development as it was one of the first automatic alarm movements. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 45 hours and is protected by a plexiglass crystal.

The E857 appeals to collectors interested in historically significant alarm watches and the evolution of automatic movements. Its larger dimensions make it a more wearable option for modern tastes compared to some earlier Memovox references. Variants exist with different dial finishes and hour marker styles, offering variety within the reference.

Specifications

Caliber
825
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
37mm
Dial
Silver
Crystal
Plexiglass

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
HH
hhh-h
Jun 1, 2020

The condition of the watch is like new. 👌👌

WA
Watcholic_id
Jun 1, 2020

the bezel insert is awesome & the plexi just adds extra sexiness toward this piece. your last pic is super cool, vintage DSA with a suit, feels like a scene from a James Bond movie thanks for sharing the pics, really made my day cheers

D-
D-TIME1
Jun 1, 2020

One day hope to own some version of this.. really like the newer US version and can only find 1 right on the web but has no papers..... -D-

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