JLC Polaris 65 vs. Vulcain Cricket Nautical
Vintage

JLC Polaris 65 vs. Vulcain Cricket Nautical

By amanico · Mar 28, 2013 · 22 replies
amanico
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
22 replies7878 views0 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

amanico presents a fascinating side-by-side comparison of two iconic alarm diving watches: the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris 65 and the Vulcain Cricket Nautical. This post delves into the shared design elements and historical context of these early pioneers in the alarm diver category, offering a unique perspective on their development and influence.

As we well know, the first Alarm Diving Watch was a Jaeger-Lecoultre, but not the one you are thinking about.

Indeed, it was not the Polaris, but the Deep Sea Alarm ( 1959 )

The second was not a Jaeger-Lecoultre, but a... Vulcain, the Cricket Nautical ( 1961 ), a watch I didn't have the pleasure to see in the real, till... Yesterday, when a good Purist and friend came in Paris wuth this marvel.

We also know that it was in 1963 that Jaeger-Lecoulte made the first protos of the Polaris, Protos which are very close to the Polaris 65, not to say identical.

Here are these two legands, side by side:



As you can see, the case ( Piquerez Super Compressor ) is the same, as well as the case back, which, on the Vulcain, always shows these famous 16 holes we don't systematically find on the Polaris 65, while they are systematically present on the Polaris 68.

The Vulcain Cricket Nautical case back:



One thing is sure: I have to get one, which I did already know, but seeing one in the flesh is a strong experience.

Best, and thanks to our Purist friend to have authorized me to take and post these pictures.

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

Advertisement
The Discussion
AR
Ares501 - Mr Green
Mar 28, 2013

magical about that Vulcain dial Both amazing icons I would also like to have one Cricket ;) Thank you for another treat my friend Best D

WA
watchme
Mar 28, 2013

at that time was the same for both models. I didn't know that the horns were exactly the same, or so they look in the picture. The only variation seems to be the crystal/bezel. Am I right? Also, both "buzzed," as (I believe) JLC hadn't invented the suspended gong yet, but the 2 watches sounded different - since the "Cricket" had its famous "chirp." -Dean

AM
amanico
Mar 28, 2013

The beze ans the crowns are indeed different, and the alarm " buzzes " in both case, but the tonality is more in the low register in the Polaris, yes. Best, Nicolas

DA
Dave G
Mar 28, 2013

We have fondness for the Polaris Tribute pieces, but I think the Vulcain Nautical reissue seems quite nice and true to the original (although I've only seen photos). Dave

AM
amanico
Mar 28, 2013

And a must have if you own the original Cricket Nautical and / or the Tribute to Polaris. Something which crossed my mind more than once. Best, Nicolas

SU
Subexplorer
Mar 28, 2013

... reunited in your great shot, for our visual pleasure! How nice to cross our paths with any of the two (or better with both!) and being able to catch it! Well, daydreaming is also a nice part of collecting! Gracias por compartirlos mi querido amigo!! Que tengas unas hermosas Pascuas con tu familia! Y recibe mi afectuoso y fuerte abrazo, Abel.

Advertisement

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Jaeger-LeCoultre forum with 22 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →