Jaeger-LeCoultre Amvox III vs. Extreme Lab One: A Comparative Review

amanico · 2020-05-06T22:19:35Z

Explore the Jaeger-LeCoultre Amvox III Boutique Edition vs. Extreme Lab One. Discover shared aesthetics, technical differences, and why the Amvox III offers a compelling alternative.

amanico

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

44 replies6767 views8 photos

Nicolas (amanico) delves into a fascinating comparison between two distinct yet aesthetically related Jaeger-LeCoultre timepieces: the Amvox III Boutique Edition and the Extreme Lab One. This article explores whether the Amvox III, despite its technical differences, can be considered a more accessible alternative to the highly innovative Extreme Lab One, highlighting shared design cues and complications that create a compelling 'family resemblance' between them. His detailed analysis provides valuable context for collectors considering either reference.

44 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Ok, we have many differences between the Amvox III and the Extreme Lab One:

- The case, slightly bigger ( 44 mm / 45 mm ) more technical with for the Extreme Lab One with a different shape, materials and the Compressor Crown. A different water resistance, with 50 meters for the Amvox III and 100 meters for the Extreme Lab One.

Amvox III Boutique Edition:

Extreme Lab One:

- The oil free movement of the Extreme Lab One, while the only common point between these two is the rotor.

Amvox III Boutique Edition:

Extreme Lab One:

But if you compare these two, there is an obvious air de famille:

- The complications are the same: Tourbillon, GMT, Jumping date.

- Some common points of design for the dial, as well...

- Last, and surprising, the Boutique Edition of the Amvox III Titanium Ceramic Case may well be as rare as the Extreme Lab One, with only 35 pieces.

The Extreme Lab One was unveiled in 2007, while the Boutique Edition of the Amvox III came in 2011.

Being at least 7 times less expensive than the Extreme Lab One, the Amvox III Boutique Edition can be considered as the poor man's Extreme Lab, certainly less technically innovative and interesting, but it is far from being neglected.

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The Extreme Lab One's movement was designed to be oil-free, a significant technical innovation, while the Amvox III, though sharing a similar aesthetic, uses a traditional lubricated movement.
The Extreme Lab II's red version incorporated silicon-type antimagnetic components, which were later omitted from the gold and blue versions due to JLC's inability to guarantee consistent timekeeping with these parts.
The Extreme Lab II features a unique push-button selector for crown functions, allowing adjustments without pulling out the crown, thus maintaining the watch's seal and water resistance at all times.
Some collectors prefer the Amvox 2 and 7 models over the Amvox 3 and 5 due to their innovative crystal-actuated chronograph function.

The Discussion

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

May 7, 2020

Either one does not feel “poor” that’s for sure 👍 [nt]

amanico

May 7, 2020

I regret not having jumped on the Amvox III when I could... [nt]

K-

K-Lo

May 7, 2020

Both are technical enough for me. [nt]

amanico

May 7, 2020

Both cool, the Extreme Lab One being a myth and a summum of technicality and innovation. [nt]

holdemchamp1225

May 7, 2020

Although I like the Amvox 3, I just don't think of the EL1 when I see it...

And I actually prefer the Amvox 2 and 7 over the 3 and 5 due to the crystal actuated chronograph function. The Amvox 3 is an amazing watch for sure, just not an EL1 or EL2 for me 🤷‍♂️ Now let's hope for an EL3 😉

amanico

May 7, 2020

For sure it doesn't have the technicality of the EL One or the Amvox II and 7. But it is something special, though. Thanks, Bruce. [nt]

No message body

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Jaeger-LeCoultre forum with 44 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

Jaeger-LeCoultre Amvox III vs. Extreme Lab One: A Comparative Review

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

Related Articles