Collection
Blomman Mr Blue, a respected voice in the WatchProSite community, shares an intimate look at his horological 'bedroom routines,' revealing the vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre alarm clocks that grace his bedside table. This post highlights the enduring appeal of mechanical alarms and the unique charm of JLC's lesser-known Memovox table clocks, offering a glimpse into a collector's personal connection with his timepieces beyond the wrist.
Friends,
I have come to realize that my time is not enough for the moment to put together another Vintage Ads post…
But I thought it would be better to post something than nothing.
I would like to share some of my bedroom routines with you.
Or at least when it comes to what I have beside my bed!
As you know – I am crazy about watches!
So for me it’s important to be able to enjoy these small mechanical wonders not only during the day but also during the night.
My routine is that I have one, two maybe three different alarm clocks on the table beside my bed.
These I rotate with a couple of week’s interval.
This week I went and got out a couple of oldies from the safe: Ref 3165 and Ref 3166.
Inside is the manual movement K 814 – same movement as in Ref 3160 (Memovox WT) and Ref 3161 (Memovox Parking).
Oh, BTW – congrats to the Parisian collector that snatched the Ref 3160 from the bay!
Hope you will share it with us here soon!
From the reference number a good guess is that these were first released in end of 1950’s or 1960 (Ref 3160 and Ref 3161 came in 1958).
Here shown in the 1960 catalogue.
Many of the pocket Memovox’s has leather pouches or covers that is a part of the watch stand.
The Ref 3166 is one of the more brilliant, IMO.
Folded it’s like a small purse to put in your pocket, un-folded a perfect angled desk clock.
If you remove the leather cover - the only difference between the two is the base plate the Ref 3165 stands on.
Ref 3165
Ref 3166
For size reference – the Polaris is 42mm.
So, what bedroom routines do you have?!
In a few weeks I will share another pair with you.
Best
Blomman
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Parking Ref. 3161 is a specialized variant within the broader Memovox alarm watch series, distinguished by its unique dial complication. Introduced in 1958, this reference was part of Jaeger-LeCoultre's 'Jubilé' year offerings, marking a period of innovation for the brand. It represents a niche application of the alarm function, tailored for a specific, practical purpose.
This reference typically features a stainless steel case, housing a manual-winding alarm movement. The dial is characterized by an inner rotating disc, which is set via a second crown, and features a distinctive 'P' or parking meter graphic. This allows the wearer to set a visual reminder for parking durations, a novel complication for its time. The case dimensions are generally modest, aligning with mid-century watch aesthetics.
For collectors, the Memovox Parking Ref. 3161 is notable for its specific historical context and unique dial execution. Its specialized function and limited production contribute to its desirability, offering a distinct piece of Jaeger-LeCoultre's horological history. It stands as an example of the brand's willingness to integrate practical, albeit unconventional, features into its mechanical timepieces.
And yes, more than once I thought about adding this kind of Memovox in my collection. A must have! Very very nice, and with the original pouch, which is the cherry on the cake. Bravo. Nicolas
Even considering that I alwaysI wake at 6AM or early, I put a Memovox alarm when I have some serious matter to handle on the morning. Of course I trust more a Memo than any fancy electronic alarm. Two beautiful demonstration of your " insanity". Congratulations. Cheers Nilo
Thanks for the nice post - those are really nice little clocks ('nice' is not a sufficient adjective, how about fantastic!). -- Sancerre
Keep 'em coming Blomman
unfortunately I can't share my bedroom routines with you :) this is not that type of forum ;) :) Best Damjan
At least as a donor in case your Parking breakes! Minimum charge, maximum pleasure! :) Thank you, my friend! Best Blomman
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