Vintage
Blomman Mr Blue embarks on a personal quest to recreate a legendary 1969 Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris / Concord ad. His post showcases his dedication to collecting and photography, culminating in a perfect photographic tribute to a vintage JLC icon.
Hello Vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre Lovers,
Of all Jaeger-LeCoultre ads I think there is one we all know: The Polaris / Concord ad from 1969.
Three years ago I made this photo:
The ad is a printout from a scan.
The Polaris is the TT Polaris.
Close, but no cigar…
As you might have noticed, I tend to strive for perfection when it comes to watches.
Three years has gone and now I am able to show you this photo:
- The original newspaper ad from 1969.
- E 855 from 1968/69.
- E 859 from 1967.
- E 861 from 1969.
The Polaris is not from 1969 – I can live with that…
As for the Concord, since there is no longer any Concord in use I will have to find other transportation for the 1969 Class Reunion!
44 years later - Let’s go on a ship!
My father made this ship out of metal junk he had laying around…
E 855
E 859
E 861
OK, let’s have a closer look.
Class mate #1 – E 855, the classic:
-T SWISS MADE T-
The location of the Jaeger-LeCoultre text is more centred.
The pearl in the alarm arrow…
Class mate #2 – E 859, the icon:
Notice how pale the indexes are.
Class mate #3 – E 861, the funky rebel:
The beginning of the Funky Memovox line.
Q? Does anybody know reference E 862 – E 869?
Would love to know if they existed/how do they look like. Funky..?
Hope you enjoyed this reunion as much as I did!
Best
Blomman
The Memovox E855 is a notable iteration within the Memovox family, recognized for its alarm complication and often associated with designs from the 1970s. This reference represents a period when Jaeger LeCoultre explored various aesthetic expressions for its alarm watches, appealing to collectors interested in the brand's mid-century output. It stands as an example of the Memovox's enduring appeal as a functional and distinctive timepiece.
This reference typically features a case, often in stainless steel, housing an automatic movement. The specific caliber, such as the K825 or 825, is known for its dual-crown system, one for time setting and winding, and the other for setting and winding the alarm function. The case diameter is commonly around 37mm, and it is fitted with a crystal, often acrylic, protecting a dial that frequently includes a rotating inner disc for the alarm setting.
For collectors, the Memovox E855 is valued for its mechanical alarm complication and its place in the lineage of Jaeger LeCoultre's alarm watches. Its variations in dial design and case materials offer diversity for those assembling a collection of Memovox models. The E855 appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate the brand's technical innovations and the distinct character of its alarm timepieces from this era.
Just some quick line: I truly enjoyed this one, and a lot indeed ! And the original ad is a true cherry on this cake; Amazing for sure - I enjoy your quest for perfection, my friend .. - one Q if allowed: in which newspaper did this ad occur ? To just briefly add, this triple is a marvel , completed by a sample of the original document. So well done, happy for you, dear Blomman, Best for this Sunday evening, hs
I don't know which paper the ad comes from - found it on a auction site, single page only. Thank you, dear friend! I know you are working this theme as well... Maybe you will show us your version of the Concorde ad one day..? :) Best Blomman
picturing your father's metal (craft)ship, you still have snow on the ground? You must have had a great snowy winter. Regards, Yves
To be honest - the pics are a couple of month old... I had all the components ready for this post for a long time. Just lacked the time to put it together. Best Blomman
To be able to gather the 3 Refs of the Concorde advertising, which must be the most famous ad in the JLC Vintage world. And when you got your E 859, I immediately thought: " He will do it ". You did it, indeed! ;) Superb post, my friend. I can imagine how proud you are to be able to gather these watches. Best, Nicolas
We both know that this day would come, my friend! You know me well - a oppertunity like this is too good for me to pass! :) Yes, this is a trio that makes me very happy. Soon I will show you this Polaris in the metal and you will understand my joy! Best, and see you soon my friend! Blomman
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