Jaeger-LeCoultre
1970s Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Polaris II (Ref. E870) "Cranberry"
The Memovox is one of Jaeger-LeCoultre's most iconic and well-performing line of watches, and even though the Memovox wasn't the first alarm watch created, JLC is definitely the brand that marketed its alarm function the best. The Memovox alarm went on to inspire some of Jaeger-LeCoultre's most interesting timepieces including the Deep Sea Alarm, the original Polaris, and countless dress models.
The original Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris debuted in 1968 but only lasted until 1969 as the Quartz Crisis started to gain traction, and is one of the most sought after vintage JLC's for collectors for its innovative marriage of the dive and alarm watch designs. In the 1970s JLC revised the Polaris design, introducing vibrant color palettes and a large tonneau case design for the Polaris II, which perfectly embodies the 1970s diving watch aesthetic and maintained the iconic Memovox alarm function.
SPECS
| Stock # | JLCMVPIIE870 | |
| Brand | Jaeger-LeCoultre | |
| Style | Polaris II Memovox |
|
| Model | E870 | |
| Serial | 126XXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Red, Gold | |
| Millimeters | 43X49 | |
| Strap | NSA Stretch Clasp Stainless Steel Bracelet |
CASE & BRACELET
The large tonneau style case is believed to remain unpolished, retaining its original non-reflective bead blasted finishing. The original bi-directional ratcheting red bakelite bezel is in superb condition and exhibits no cracks or separation, the tritium triangle at the 12 o'clock position is fully intact and matches the dial patina nicely. The case retains its original twin "JL" signed crowns. The mineral glass crystal shows minimal signs of use on its surface, the white outer minute track on the underside of the crystal is in near perfect condition. The scalloped case back also retains its original finishing and displays some tool marks from previous services. The rare and original NSA stretch-clasp bracelet features a similar finishing as the case and displays almost not stretch from use and retains 29 links, which will fit an 8in. wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The deep red or "cranberry" outer portion of the dial retains its strong matte texture and shows no imperfections. The inner rotating dial for setting the Memovox alarm function has aged to a beautiful champagne coloration and shows only light signs of age. The tritium markers have achieved a vibrant yellow coloration and exhibit no degradation under U.V. light inspection. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and show no degradation when inspected under U.V. light.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, back by a 1-year warranty of accurate timekeeping.