Jaeger-LeCoultre 4 ATM Ref. E 13001 Chronograph
Vintage

Jaeger-LeCoultre 4 ATM Ref. E 13001 Chronograph

By amanico · Nov 26, 2017 · 20 replies
amanico
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
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Amanico revisits the Jaeger-LeCoultre 4 ATM Ref. E 13001 chronograph, a vintage piece often overlooked despite its compelling characteristics. The author notes the scarcity of literature and images for this model, positioning it as a hidden gem compared to JLC's more famous references. This post serves as a valuable resource for collectors seeking to understand the unique appeal of this 40mm steel chronograph with a Valjoux 72 movement.

I already reviewed that watch, some years ago. 

For those who are interested to learn more about it, please click here: 

www.watchprosite.com  

As I often do, I am hunting several informations, here and there, and at the Manufacture, to try to better know a watch. 

One fact: There is almost no literature on this vintage Chronograph, nor many pictures, either. Try to do a search via Google, you will see. 

This Chronograph doesn't have the prestige of its illustrious brothers or sisters, the Geophysic, the Reverso, the Polaris, Deep Sea Alarm, Triple Calendar or Military watches ( Mark 7, Mark 7 Seems, Mark 11 ) and a few others. 

Still, it doesn't lack interest. 

A 40 mm steel case, screw-in case back, Valjoux 72 movement are the main characteristics of this watch.

These characteristics are massively shared by a lot of chronographs. Ok, the size may differ, but you have a lot of watches with steel cases, screw in case back and Valjoux 72. The most famous one is certainly the vintage Rolex Daytona, which has a smaller case ( 37 mm ). 

The three sub dial configuration is not really special, either. 

But this is the watch as a whole which is appealing. 

The traditional configuration is panda: Three grey blue sub dials. 

The more common configuration is lacking the Swiss Made mention. While the " Made In France " writing is pretty rare. Swiss Made mention have been seen, but rarely.

There is another very rare configuration: the All White dial ( counters and dial ). 

The Made in France has been seen by myself two times, only, and I only saw the All White once, in picture. 

The All White: ( Credit picture: A collected man ) 


The Made in France:


The Swiss Made: ( Credit picture unknown )


The No Swiss Made:


You will also observe that there are three kind of bezels: Retrograde Hours, Retrograde Minutes, and normal minutes. 

If there are some variations on the mentions on the dial, there is one constant fact: The case back is not signed outside nor inside, the movement isn't, either. 

The case number is engraved on the case back. This way, I could find that all the specimens I saw in the real or on the pictures had a serial number starting with 442. 

The E 13001 case back ( on the right ): 


So I found the: 442 089, 442 468, 442 642 and 442 745. 

Mine has a special number... 442 666, you cannot fight against your reputation. 

So, why don't you more often see this watch?

It was produced for three years, from 1968 to 1971. Some other watches had a shorter life, and are more famous: Geophysic and Deep Sea Alarm are two good examples. 

The production numbers may well be the explanation: It is hard to say how many were made. The manufacture couldn't tell me. So we have to guess estimate the number of pieces made. I would say somewhere between 300 and 500. It is true that we don"t often see the 4 ATM, discussed or for sale, but that doesn't mean nothing. 

For instance, I only saw less than 10 Polaris 1965 during years and years, and since 4 or 5 years, I see much more. 

A new legend to become? 

At least a very cool watch. 


Best,

Nicolas

About the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Ref. Polaris1965

The Memovox Polaris 1965 is a notable early iteration of Jaeger-LeCoultre's alarm-equipped diver's watch. This reference is distinguished by its triple-crown configuration and internal rotating bezel, a design that set it apart from other alarm watches of its era. It represents a significant development in the Memovox line, moving towards a more robust and purpose-built aesthetic while retaining the signature mechanical alarm function. The Polaris 1965 is recognized for its specific case construction and dial layout that differentiate it from subsequent Polaris models.

This particular reference features a stainless steel case, typically measuring 42mm in diameter, which was substantial for its time. It houses a self-winding mechanical movement, specifically the Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 825, known for its reliability and integrated alarm mechanism. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal, contributing to its vintage profile. The design prioritizes legibility and functionality, with a black dial providing contrast for the luminous markers and hands.

For collectors, the Memovox Polaris 1965 holds interest as an original example of the Polaris series. Its relatively limited production and distinctive design elements make it a sought-after piece. It appeals to those who appreciate the historical evolution of the Memovox line and the brand's early ventures into watches with enhanced water resistance and specialized functions. The Polaris 1965 is a foundational model within the broader Memovox family.

Specifications

Caliber
JLC 825
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
42mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
200m
Crystal
Acrylic

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The Discussion
DE
dedestexhes
Nov 26, 2017

just found this one on a famous auction site. Not sure if this is similar? Br, Dirk

HS
HSTE
Nov 26, 2017

Thanks for presenting this watch. Cheers, HSTE

RO
Ron_W
Nov 26, 2017

Were these subcontracted with private dials if you know ?

JO
Joepny
Nov 26, 2017

have a good start to your new week!

WA
Watcholic_id
Nov 26, 2017

thanks for sharing with us

HS
hs111
Nov 27, 2017

.. this Panda dial with the somewhat off-white base( Patina or originally like mother-of-pearl, when light changes angle of view), also with a reasonable size, renders a lot of attraction to me ! Since then, I have seen no others, except in pics.. Thx for this stimulating share ! Best, hs

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