Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox, 1950s

Dealer description — Analog/Shift

The first popular mechanical alarm wristwatch was the Vulcain Cricket. It gained many accolades upon its debut in 1947, making its way onto the wrists of numerous notable individuals — including several U.S. Presidents. In the late 1940s, Jaeger-LeCoultre began producing its own mechanical alarm watch to compete with the popular Cricket. Utilizing a unique twin-crown system and a unique alarm mechanism — the Memovox employs a hammer that strikes against a post welded to the caseback, whereas the Cricket uses a resonant, dual-case back design — JLC set itself apart and in so doing, created one of the most iconic models of post-War watchmaking. LeCoultre's earliest Memovox expressions were largely available in Europe, while American-market models — cased in steel, two-tone, or in 14K gold in an array of dial configurations — were offered as early as 1951. This particular example dates to the 1950s and bears the hallmarks of a U.S. model, the most distinct of which is the use of a “LeCoultre” signature rather than “Jaeger-LeCoultre” branding on the dial. (Another sign, located inside the snapback case, is a stamp reading “Cased and Timed in the United States.”) Housed in a 37mm stainless steel case with dual signed winding crowns, a domed acrylic crystal, and a smooth bezel, it features a rarely seen, luminous matte black dial with an inner, rotating alarm-setting disc. Applied ‘line’ indices and a date window at 3 o’clock are joined by luminous ‘dauphine’ hands, while the self-winding Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre K825 bumper movement provides power. Outfitted to one of our Rhino Black vegan leather straps, this piece bears no shortage of patina and wear of a life full-lived. With its handsome dial and delightful alarm sound, this piece is sure to make you smile every time you strap it on your wrist!