Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX Crystal Chronographs Guide

Lankysudanese · 2022-07-23T14:22:41Z

Explore the Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX crystal-activated chronographs. Lankysudanese's review and collector insights on wearability, materials, and unique features.

Lankysudanese

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

46 replies7966 views2 photos

Lankysudanese embarks on a quest for the Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX crystal-activated chronograph, a timepiece known for its innovative design and unique functionality. His original post seeks insights from the WatchProSite community on wearability, material choices, and long-term ownership experiences. This article synthesizes the collective wisdom shared, offering a comprehensive guide for collectors considering this distinctive JLC reference.

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I’m considering starting the hunt for one. Any current or past owners, that can share their experience? I have relatively smaller wrists (6.5 inches). How does the 44mm case wear? Which version would you prefer (grade 5 titanium Vs black ceramic)? Any problems with the chronograph function activation and reset (with time)? How’s the legibility? Is it a double barrel movement (to offer the 65 hour PR)?

It seems like they were issued at a time when watch journalistic reporting wasn’t as in-depth as it is now. Not much information posted about MSRP, LUL, weight etc

Thanks in advance

Much appreciated

Hussam

Photos borrowed from the web

Key Points from the Discussion

The 44mm AMVOX case, despite its size, wears well on smaller wrists (e.g., 6.5 inches) due to its short lugs and curved caseback, though some find it tall.
The choice between grade 5 titanium and black ceramic (PVD-coated titanium) is largely aesthetic, though concerns exist about the long-term durability and re-PVD cost for the black version.
Early AMVOX crystal-activated chronographs had some issues, but these were resolved in later iterations, and the unique chronograph activation and reset function is generally reliable, with one owner reporting 12+ years without service issues.
Legibility is generally good, but the sub-dials and date window can be challenging to read due to their depth and small size. Lume is present but relatively weak.
The AMVOX movement does not feature a double barrel, despite its 65-hour power reserve. The chronograph's instantaneously-jumping minutes feature is a notable and appreciated detail.
The original AMVOX 2 in titanium or PVD is considered by some to be the cleanest design, though the lack of a running seconds hand might deter those who prefer constant dial 'life'. The stainless steel version with a silver and black dial is highly regarded for its versatility.

The Discussion

amanico

Jul 23, 2022

But here are some answers: 1/ The 44 mm case will be good for your wrist, since the lugs are quite short. 2./ Between titanium and black dlc titanium, a matter of taste. The Extreme fan in me would make me choose the Black. But the Titanium will stand the test of time very well, too. 3/ The early pieces had some issues, not anymore. 4/ Legibility is good enough. Except in the dark, due to the relatively weak lume. 5/ No double barrel. Best, mon ami. Nicolas

Lankysudanese

Jul 23, 2022

Please delete this thread/post then.

AuHavrePro

Jul 23, 2022

there is a 'sea' of information on these watches available to you here.... These are links to some of my own threads: www.watchprosite.com www.watchprosite.com Cheers and good luck, I hope you get one!!

Lankysudanese

Jul 23, 2022

So far, it appears that several variants of the AMVOX II were produced (including a platinum one, and several dial variants of the DLC titanium case) along with the AMVOX VII with a with the radial power reserve indication on the dial. The latter is gorgeous. Need to dig up info regarding how many were produced. I'm usually not a fan of DLC or PVD treated cases, but if JLC can re-DLC/PVD cases every 3-5 years of ownership, it shouldn't be a problem.

Lankysudanese

Jul 23, 2022

it is a very uniquely-activated and represented chronograph, with the functional bells-and-whistles of vertical clutch and column wheel. 65 hours of PR in a chronograph, at the time that these timepieces were introduced, is bonkers! some have the running seconds indication (with the AM emblem) and some don't. Any idea how long this run AMVOX run (with the case-activation) was? I would expect a venerable manufacture such as JLC to maintain technical skills and know-how for maintenance and servici

AuHavrePro

Jul 23, 2022

only the PVD coating on the buckle itself is really sensitive to chips, the cases themselves appear to be fairly tough against anything other than 'hairline' scratches. I'll share a picture of my buckle with you a bit later.... Cheers, Filip

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Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX Crystal Chronographs Guide

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