Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Memovox Compressor Review
Review

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Memovox Compressor Review

By amanico · Jun 11, 2017 · 30 replies
amanico
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
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Nicolas (amanico) reflects on the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Memovox Compressor, a groundbreaking release from 2002 that marked a significant departure for the brand's sports watch offerings. He highlights its blend of modernity and tradition, drawing inspiration from the Polaris 1968 while introducing innovative features like the compressor key.

Souvenirs... 

We are in 2002.  Jaeger Lecoultre unveils a crazy watch. 

Crazy in the meaning that nothing looked like that before in the JLC production, at least from the last 20 years as we had some creatures in the 70's. 

Well, you have some key codes which make you think about some watches from the past, and more specifically the Polaris 1968. 

The winning cocktail, here, is the combination of modernity ( the alarm  window and the compressor key ) and tradition, the indices, the case, and the movement.

The missing opportunity is to give it a modern movement, to replace the Cal 918 and its painful date setting ( you have to move the hands backward and forward from 10 PM to 3 AM ). 

Indeed, the modern alarm movement, Cal 912 and 956, came a few years after. 

The 41, 5 mm case was the prefect size for such a watch, whose lugs makes you think of the... Polaris. 

Here is the press file picture which made me fall in love with that Master Memovox Compressor. 



No need to say that I got it the year it was unveiled, and owned it for some 4 years. 

It was the beginning of a cool saga, for JLC and for the fans of the brand. 

Some were disoriented, some were immediately in love. This is the apanage of strong watches. But nobody can deny that JLC achieved something positive... At the point that, 15 years after, a lot of us are asking for a sport watch from the Grande Maison. 

Something like that? Something different, but in the same spirit? Something totally new? 

There is some place for a bit of everything, and for every budget, in my opinion. 

And better than that, there is a need for that! 

Best,

Nicolas

About the Jaeger LeCoultre Memovox Ref. Polaris1968

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Polaris 1968 is a notable iteration of the Memovox line, distinguished by its multi-crown design and internal rotating bezel. This particular reference is recognized for its robust case construction and the integration of an alarm function, a signature complication of the Memovox series, presented in a sport-oriented configuration. It represents a specific period in the development of the Memovox collection, offering a distinct aesthetic and functional profile.

This timepiece features a stainless steel case, measuring 42mm in diameter. It is powered by an automatic movement, specifically the Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber K825, which provides the time, alarm, and an internal rotating bezel function. The crystal protecting the dial is acrylic, contributing to its period-correct appearance. The movement offers a power reserve suitable for daily wear.

For collectors, the Memovox Polaris 1968 holds interest due to its unique design elements and its place within the broader history of alarm watches. Its three-crown configuration, with one crown for winding and setting the time, another for setting and activating the alarm, and a third for operating the internal bezel, makes it a distinctive piece. The watch appeals to those who appreciate mid-century sports watch designs with integrated complications.

Specifications

Caliber
Caliber K825
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
42mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
200m
Crystal
Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
HS
hs111
Jun 11, 2017

.. such as for the other Compressor Models, including the NSA series.. Here just some kind greetings with my own Compressor Memovox, whichI still like a lot. Even today a fresh & strong appeal ) Please JLC, hear our pledge & quest for a new sports model ! Thx for this nice reminding post & picture, Best, hs

BL
blomman Mr Blue
Jun 11, 2017

The MCM was and still is a great and cool sports watch, but JLC need a new card to play in the category! Best Blomman

KE
kev09
Jun 11, 2017

I fell in love with this watch when it was launched but it was a few years later before I managed to own one. I loved everything about the watch: the dial inspired by the Polaris, the case, the alarm setting window, the little red accent on the seconds hand and even the date. Also, the alarm has a really nice tone. However, what ruined it for me was the compressor keys. I just could not live with them and found them fiddly and too obtrusive. I have a slim wrist and they seemed to be forever stic

VI
VintageAlex (aka AlexKontiki)
Jun 11, 2017

As soon as I get a few watches that I. Waiting for I'll turn into a JL collector, I'm already in love. But my first love always will be... you know, everybody knows. All the best Alex

TI
Tim_M
Jun 11, 2017

I've always wanted one, and I will have one as soon as my current collection goals (tougher pieces to obtain) are met. Many folks ask me about the best modern sports watches for the money, and this is a watch I recommend without reservation in every instance. Thankfully, they're still quite accessible and represent immense value. Moreover, the design was original and adventurous. I appreciate that JLC has a rich heritage, but after a exhaustive run of "tribute" watches, the brand would do well t

CO
cory
Jun 11, 2017

make it NEW and unattainable... like the original LAB. Allow us continue to dream JLC.

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