Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox

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!