Collection
GreatCookie's post highlights the enduring appeal and personal significance of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox E873. This piece delves into the unique aesthetics and sentimental value of a watch that, despite its owner's initial photographic reservations, holds a cherished place in their collection. The discussion that follows enriches GreatCookie's perspective with historical context and practical insights.
The Memovox E873, also known as the Memovox GT Speedbeat, represents a distinctive evolution within the Memovox collection, characterized by its tonneau-shaped case and vibrant dial configurations. This reference departs from the more traditional round cases of earlier Memovox models, offering a more contemporary aesthetic that reflects late 1960s and early 1970s design trends. Its "GT" designation often implies a sportier or grand touring appeal, aligning with a period of innovation in watch design and functionality.
This particular reference typically features a robust case, often crafted from stainless steel or gold, housing an automatic alarm movement. The movement, known for its "Speedbeat" designation, operates at a higher frequency, contributing to its precision. The watch is fitted with a crystal, protecting a dial that frequently incorporates contrasting colors and applied hour markers, enhancing legibility and visual interest. The dual crown system allows for separate winding and setting of the time and the alarm function.
For collectors, the Memovox E873 is valued for its unique design language and its place in the lineage of Jaeger-LeCoultre's alarm watches. It appeals to those seeking a vintage piece that combines mechanical ingenuity with a bold, period-specific aesthetic. The variety in dial colors and case materials provides options for different collecting preferences, making it a notable example of the brand's creative output during a transitional era in watchmaking.
And yours is in superb shape! Here are the other versions:
You Sir are truly a walking compendium of information. I’ve never seen the dial variations laid out like that. Part of your personal collection?
Thank you for sharing! -D-
I'd also say it's a Memovox - what's not to like! Cheers JML
Nice memovox 873 indeed, your mother had very good taste ! This dial variation is even less seen than others, and yours seems to be in a pristine condition. Re. the date : as a reminder, there is no quick set, but still a "semi-quick set" on this model. You just have to turn the crown forward and backward, between 03:00 and 21:00, to change it. No need to have the hands doing the 2 full roundclocks. regards karmin
I have the gold version, and an emotional attachtment like yours. I inherited this watch when my father died back in 2004. (See pictures in next message - technical issues...) It is a special watch. The shape looks beautiful and weird at the same time. Strapping it on always makes it look better, I find. And when you dive into the details of the dial and the caseback you realize that there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye. Enjoy it! Claus
This thread is active on the Jaeger-LeCoultre forum with 24 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.
Join the Discussion →
