Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Reference Guide

amanico · 2024-11-01T01:48:43Z

Explore the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox with this comprehensive reference guide. Discover vintage models, calibers, and rare references like the Deep Sea Alarm and Polaris.

amanico

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

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Amanico's "Memovox Reference Post" stands as a monumental resource for Jaeger-LeCoultre collectors, offering an unparalleled deep dive into the iconic alarm watch. This article distills years of dedicated research and community contributions, making the intricate history and diverse references of the Memovox accessible to both seasoned enthusiasts and new admirers. Amanico's meticulous documentation, initially presented as an exhibition overview, serves as the definitive guide to understanding this horological marvel.

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Here, I'm trying to gather all the documents and versions of this iconic watch.

I will start with the Memovox Exhibition, and then speak about all the Vintage Memovoxes.

If you have a Memovox which is not already posted, please add it to this thread, in the appropriate category.
Of course, if you have a Memovox already covered in these posts, you can post it.
In both cases, please try to provide the case and the movement number.

Have fun!

Best,

Nicolas.

Key Points from the Discussion

The Memovox exhibition at Artcurial in Paris showcased a significant collection of vintage Memovoxes from 1950 to the early 1980s, highlighting both authentic models and extremely rare pieces across five display windows.
The Ref E 861, produced from 1969 to 1971 in 3150 pieces, marked the end of the Caliber 825's use and featured a distinctive case shape, bridging round and oval designs. It later evolved into the Ref E 873 with the Caliber 916.
The 1958 'Jubilé' collection celebrated JLC's 125th Anniversary, featuring rare models like the Memovox World Time, Memovox Parking, and the Ref 3159 in rose gold, with only 100 pieces made out of 2198 total between 1958-1961, housing Caliber 489 or K 814.
Jaeger-LeCoultre pioneered the first automatic alarm movement with the Caliber 815 in 1956, followed by its date-equipped 'brother,' the Caliber 825, in 1959. Both 17-jewel bumper automatics beat at 18,000 VPH and were produced in significant quantities.
The Caliber 489, produced from 1950 to 1958 in approximately 47,500 units, often appears as P 489/1, where 'P' denotes Parachoc shock protection. This period saw a transition from tubular to classic straight or teardrop lugs and diverse dial designs.
The very first Memovox, Ref 3150 (1950-1952), is distinguished by its tubular lugs and an elevated case back designed to enhance alarm resonance. It houses the manual-winding Caliber 489 with a 45-hour power reserve and 20-second alarm autonomy.

The Discussion

amanico

Jan 11, 2011

The Paris Memovox Exhibition.

From the 25th to the 28th of November, was held in Paris, at the famous auction house Artcurial ( 7, Rond Point des Champs Elysées ) one of the most impressive - if not THE most impressive - exhibition of Vintage Memovoxes. A collector - a friend - accepted to share some of his most interesting pieces for that occasion. All the Memovoxes which were made from 1950 to the early 80ies were not present, but an exhaustive collection of this iconic watch from our beloved Manufacture seems an impossibl

Bill

Dec 12, 2016

This is truely one of the most comprehensive riview Of Jaeger LeCoutre Memovox history.

Spectacular review and pictures. Bravo.

amanico

Dec 12, 2016

Thanks for your kind words, Bill. I am sure there are still some missing. [nt]

amanico

Jan 11, 2011

The very first Memovox:The Ref 3150.

A detail makes all the difference, between the very first Memovox, the Ref 3150, and all the other which came later: The shape of the lugs. As you will see on the pictures posted here, the lugs are tubular. And if you pay attention to the pictures, you wil notice that the case back is not " sitting ", but elevated on the wearer's wrist, in order to enhance the resonnance of the Alarm. The 3150 was produced from 1950 to 1952, and, according to Zaf Basha, was officially introduced to the Public at

amanico

Jan 11, 2011

The other Memovoxes housing the Cal 489.

The Calibre 489 was massively produced from 1950 to 1958, as some 47 500 movements came from the Manufacture at this moment. You will notice that on the following watches, the reference of this Calibre slightly changes, as it is mentionned P 489/1. It is exactly the same movement, but the P stands for Parachoc ( shock protected ). Exit the Tubular shaped lugs, and welcome the classic straight or teardrop lugs, a nice evocation of the style and design from the fifties. You will also notice, like

amanico

Jan 11, 2011

E 850 from 1955.

Cal 489. Stainless Steel 33 mm case.

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