Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Compressor Memovox Travel

ChristianDK · 2012-05-26T07:22:49Z

ChristianDK shares his enduring love for the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Compressor Memovox, discussing its versatile design, unique character, and suitability as a travel watch.

ChristianDK

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

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ChristianDK shares his long-standing affection for the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Compressor Memovox, his trusted travel companion and first JLC. He explores its versatile design, unique quirks, and enduring appeal, inviting the community to guess his travel destination based on the watch's role.

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Can you guess where I am with my Master Compressor Memovox?

I have been travelling a lot lately. My go-to travel watch in my collection is my old trusted love, the Master Compressor Memovox. It was also my first JLC. It is very versatile as it is rugged but it is still elegant with a shirt and tie. its 42 mm is the upper limit for what I can live with now a days. Normally I keep it on an aligator strap but for this trip, I decided to put it on the rubber strap that JLC designed for this watch. I think that works quite well also. The watch is waterproof to 100m so useful in unforseen situations on your trip.

The alarm woke me up every morning on this trip as it was the only way (hint!)

Its is not a watch to everyones taste, due to the quirky design by Magali Matrallier.Most people prefer the Amvox 1 over this but I really I dont agree. To me, the amvox 1 was more a "polaris wanna be", where this was more typical of its time - the beginning of the 20th century, introducing the strange compressor crowns and with a very "graphic" approach. Classic and simple design is not automatically better, unless it is done very well and extremely precisely. To me the several quirks, work well in this piece and the 7 years of love have not rusted, which i regret to say, it has for several more "popular" pieces in my collection.

So where are we?

Best

Christian

Key Points from the Discussion

The Master Compressor Memovox and Amvox I, while both modern expressions of the Polaris, have different targets and characters, with the MC Memovox having a stronger, less consensual design due to Magali Matrallier's unique elements like the crown at 10 and large alarm window.
The Master Compressor line, while not for everyone, is a well-conceived crossover between a sportswatch and a dress watch, offering versatility for various occasions.
The Master Compressor was the entry point to the JLC brand for some collectors, appreciating its ability to be dressed up or down, making it 'just right' for those who aren't strictly dress watch or tool watch enthusiasts.
The Master Compressor Memovox's quirky design may limit its broad appeal, but it possesses unique qualities that make it a notable piece for those interested in Memovox collecting.

The Discussion

blomman Mr Blue

May 26, 2012

But I do share all your feelings for the Master Compressor Memovox! It is also my go to watch, my beater that never falls out of love! Best Blomman

ChristianDK

May 26, 2012

I knew I would hear from you since I know your love for this piece hope all is well with you best C This message has been edited by ChristianDK on 2012-05-26 07:59:36

amanico

May 26, 2012

I would not confront the MC Memo and the Amvox I. The Targets are different, even if they both have in common a modern expression of the Polaris. The weird elements of design ( mainly the crown at 10 and the large alarm window ) are the signature of their creator, Magali, who had the audace to offer something different, not consensual. In that sense, yes, the MC Memovox has a stronger character than the Amvox One. I am writing something on that topic, by the way, a reflection on the Polaris, for

tinker2

May 26, 2012

don't know where u are-- But I am wearing your watch's close cousin myself today. Humid here, so also the rubber strap. That woman sure could design a watch... she will be sorely missed!

tinker2

May 26, 2012

My GMT is a watch that I think is woefully under-appreciated. There is a balance, elegance, as well as a contemporary feel that I think makes it something quite special....

ChristianDK

May 26, 2012

My friend It will be fantastic to see you soon... You are right that the MCM and amvox 1 are different but the reason behind putting them side by side, is that they came with only a few years apart adm where offered in the collection at the same time, so potential buyers could choose bethween these two great watches. As you write they can be picked up in the second hand market at very reasonable prices . Thank you for your input Your friend Christian

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