Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox: New Acquisition

hoseachandra · 2024-09-21T02:44:04Z

Explore hoseachandra's rare 36mm Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Tritium, its unique features, and community insights on servicing and straps.

hoseachandra

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

39 replies5566 views3 photos

Hoseachandra's acquisition of a 36mm Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox, particularly the rarer Tritium version, sparks a conversation about the enduring appeal of vintage alarm watches. His post highlights the unique challenges and joys of collecting these pieces, from navigating aftermarket straps to understanding the nuances of their mechanical movements. This article delves into the community's insights on his new acquisition, offering valuable perspectives for both seasoned collectors and those new to the world of JLC Memovox.

Traded my Grand seiko for thia little beauty. Hard to find especially here in Asia. And i got the rarer Tritium version. The 36mm size is just pure joy to wear.... The bracelet, i must admit, not my taste. Some may like it, and the bracelet is very expensive to buy separately so it's a bonus. Nevertheless it is well made, very supple but it was very difficult to remove. Luckily, i came prepared

. Switched to Delugs 18mm black alligator. Hmmmm...a handsome dress watch. I am not going to review it, as Nico and many friends here already did. I like the sound...very clear and loud. Do you think i need to get it full-serviced? I always do that for my preowned pieces. But the seller said they have serviced it (in-house, not by JLC) albeit its just simple cleaning and oiling . No proof of service document , so i take their statement with a grain of salt. Thanks for looking.

Key Points from the Discussion

The alarm 'hammer' on some JLC Memovox movements, like the caliber 916, is designed to hang loose and can be heard striking the gong with wrist movements, even when the alarm is not wound. This is considered normal operation and not a sign of accelerated wear.
Some aftermarket strap makers, such as Delugs, prioritize immediate comfort and suppleness, designing straps that don't require a break-in period. This contrasts with some OEM straps which may be designed with a different philosophy.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox with a sapphire caseback is notable for showcasing the gong, which is embedded directly into the sapphire, offering a unique visual and auditory experience.
The original poster observed an unused 'hole' on the main plate of his movement, lacking a jewel or screw thread. This raises a question about whether such features are normal in certain JLC calibers.
While Delugs straps are praised for their quality and comfort, the original poster noted that their signature series alligator strap was thinner compared to OEM alligator straps from brands like Omega, Breguet, and JLC.
Smaller sized JLC watches from this era, especially black dial variants, are increasingly attractive to collectors.

The Discussion

Aquaracer1

Sep 21, 2024

Congrats! I just ordered a couple DeLugs straps for the first time. Will see how I like them ��

hoseachandra

Sep 21, 2024

Note that i bought the signature series (real alligator strap), so your order maybe different. On the other hand, i am bit underwhelmed by how thin the strap , compared to the OEM alligator strap from Omega, Breguet, JLC, etc.

Aquaracer1

Sep 21, 2024

Two leather straps for me , one chestnut, the other, textured navy. They seem quality for the price, and visually appealing. Good customer service and quick arrival. Planning them for my incoming next week!

Goh

Sep 21, 2024

I really like this, and it looks perfect on your wrist. Quite comfortable on that bracelet too. Enjoy the beauty.

KMII

Sep 21, 2024

And what a lovely piece it is - huge congratulations ��

KMII

Sep 21, 2024

Might be in their overall approach. Let me explain what I mean. Many newer aftermarket strap makers follow the philosophy that straps get changed regularly, while many OEM straps are still designed like that is not the case. The difference? Using Delugs as an example, the straps are supple to wear right on arrival and do not need time to be broken in (during which they are less than fully comfortable). Some might be thinner - although that again depends on what you specify, custom made ones have

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