Jaeger-LeCoultre E 855 & E 877 Snowdrop Dials
Vintage

Jaeger-LeCoultre E 855 & E 877 Snowdrop Dials

By blomman Mr Blue · Apr 24, 2012 · 28 replies
blomman Mr Blue
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
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Blomman Mr Blue explores how different dial variations and case materials significantly alter a watch's character, using Jaeger-LeCoultre's E 855 and the rare E 877 Snowdrop as prime examples. His post highlights the subtle yet profound impact of design choices on a timepiece's aesthetic and appeal.

Note: This post has E 877 Snowdrop content.

If your name is Nilo, please be careful if proceeding beyond this point!

smile

As you know, the dial sets the tone of a watch.

Different dial, different spirit!

Example: E 855 – here are four different dials.

As you can see the four watches have very different characters.

Even small differences makes a BIG difference!

Not only the dial changes the character of a watch, case material does it as well.

Here is an example:

This leads me into to the E 877 Snowdrop.

My blue drop you have seen…

So what did the Manufacture to sell more watches..?

T he Sonwdrop came in three colours: White, Blue and Black.

White. Pic credit: Rafal

Blue

Black. Pic credit: Nicolas

In two metals, SS and YG.

Pic credit: A.F.W.

All with the one piece case…

But if you noticed – there was also two different dial layout.

One with radial outer dial and one solid colour dial.

So, let’s open the box!

What could be inside?

Paper, manual and hangtag…

OK, enough teasing – here she is!

White solid dial, NOS – box and paper.

What can I say? I am totally in love!

With original bracelet…

At home!

Even the original plastic was still on the back when I found her…

Here they are - the two sisters!

So different but still the same.

In Texas Hold’em this would be Pocket Rockets… Or Sneak eyes!

smile

To finish this post: a wrist shot showing the many layers and depths of this watch.

 

 

Best

Blomman

PS. Nilo, I hope you are still OK! wink

About the Jaeger LeCoultre Master Mariner Memovox Ref. E877

The Master Mariner Memovox reference E877 is a notable example of Jaeger-LeCoultre's alarm watch production from the late 1960s and early 1970s. This particular reference is distinguished by its robust case design and the integration of the Memovox alarm complication within the Master Mariner line, which was known for its more resilient construction. It represents a period when the brand was exploring more contemporary case shapes while maintaining its horological traditions.

This reference typically features a stainless steel case, often with a cushion or tonneau profile, measuring approximately 39mm in diameter. It houses an automatic winding movement, specifically the Caliber 916, which provides both timekeeping and the distinctive mechanical alarm function. The crystal is commonly acrylic, contributing to its period-correct aesthetic. The movement offers a power reserve suitable for daily wear.

For collectors, the E877 is appealing due to its distinctive aesthetic and the reliable Caliber 916. It offers a blend of practical complication and mid-century design, making it a sought-after piece for those interested in vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre alarm watches. Its variations in dial finish and case execution provide further collecting interest within the broader Memovox family.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal. 916
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
39mm
Dial
Silver
Crystal
Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AM
amanico
Apr 24, 2012

First of all, congratulations on your last catch, this compleyte set, and a psychedelic box, to say the least. By the way, are you sure this is the correct warranty booklet for this watch? I would rather see a brown one, instread of a blue one... You are more than right about the dials? Change the dial, you almost change the look, no, better said, the spirrit of the watch. This is obvious on the examples you chose to use. Was thinking exactly the same, once again, when viewing the pictures I too

NI
nilomis
Apr 25, 2012

Torture is, or should be, against law. Now serious: Blomman, What beautiful set of Memos. The last one is stunning and it seems out of a time machine. Congratulations and, please, stop with Memos. Accept Nicolas suggestion and start collecting ... Rolex. BTW: It was a good test. My heart survived. Cheers, Nilo

CL
Clavi
Apr 25, 2012

Wowww This new find of yours is absolutely amazing. Not only did you find a Snowdrop in pristine condition (and with this smooth round case, a lot of them have suffered), but you also unearthed it with a box which is I believe a true first here or anywhere. I had no idea that this hypnotic box existed. Don't know if it was a special for the snowdrop (it has no reference to the snowdrop itself, unlike the Geomatic box for example) or a very limited production of a box for a specific market at som

AM
amanico
Apr 25, 2012

I was waiting for your input on that box, Clavi. So, the mystery will remain untouched, it seems. Best, Nicolas

BL
blomman Mr Blue
Apr 25, 2012

Never seen the box before. When I got the watch I didn’t even know it came with the box… Guess my surprise when I opened the packages! The paper came with the box - will check the date on the paper when I come home. Thank you, my friend! Best Blomman

BL
blomman Mr Blue
Apr 25, 2012

That IS good new, my friend! Now we know you are fully recovered! You think I should ccept Nicolas suggestion…? Well, not there yet – still needs to get the Polaris 68! After that who knows… Thank you, Nilo! Best Blomman

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