JLC Memovox E 855 Black vs. E 859 Polaris 1965
Vintage

JLC Memovox E 855 Black vs. E 859 Polaris 1965

By amanico · Nov 21, 2017 · 24 replies
amanico
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
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amanico initiates a fascinating comparative study between two vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox references: the E 855 "Black" and the E 859 Polaris 1965. His detailed side-by-side analysis delves into the subtle yet significant differences in their dials, hands, and alarm discs, raising a key question about potential shared design elements. This exploration offers valuable insights for collectors interested in the historical evolution of these iconic alarm watches.

The reason behind this side by side picture is not only motivated by the pleasure to see these 2 beauties, but to see how similar and different they can be, and to try to find an answer to the following question:

Did Jaeger Lecoultre use the dial of the Polaris 1965 for the E 855 " Black "? 

When I took this picture, I know that, to be complete and more accurate, I had to compare the black dialed E 855 with a Jaeger Lecoultre E 859 Polaris 1965, and not only with a Lecoultre. 

Here is the Lecoultre Polaris versus the black E 855: 


As you can see, there is more wording on the Lecoultre Polaris than on the Jaeger Lecoultre Polaris or than on the Black E 855, as pictured above. The Jaeger Lecoultre Polaris is indeed closer to the E 855.

The Jaeger Lecoultre Polaris 1965.


Other than that, there are several common points. 

First, the dial is glossy. The alarm disc is very close, too, surrounded by some dots. But on the ( Jaeger ) Lecoultre Polaris, the luminous dots are bigger. And on the Jaeger Lecoultre, there is no Memovox mention written on its alarm disc, as it is the case for the E 855. 

There is a rectangular alarm triangle on the E 855 and E 859, but on the E 855 it is empty while on the Polaris it is filled with tritium. 

The hands can be the same ( Dauphine ) on both, or baton. Both configurations are correct in the Polaris, while the E 855 hands have to be Dauphine shaped. 

The black dial of the E 855 and E 859 is bombed, in both cases. The dial layout is very close. 


Both have thin metal indices, longer and larger on the E 855, and 6 / 9 / 12 applied hour markers in the Polaris.

Both the E 855 and E 859 1965 have a gilt signature, too. 

The Date disc is framed by a metallic window in the Jaeger Lecoultre and Lecoultre Polaris 1965. It is not framed in the E 855. 

It is interesting to keep in mind that the Polaris 1968 doesn't have a metallic window. And the date is stuck to the alarm indices, it doesn't " eat " them in the Polaris and in the Memovox E 855.


Another interesting point is the comparison of the production dates. 

The first Polaris was conceived as a prototype as soon as 1963. The definitive version came in 1965, and in production till 1967, to let place to the luminous indices the following year. 

The Black Memovox E 855 was unveiled circa 1967 / 1968, which helps to know which one inspired the other... 

Unless... Jaeger Lecoultre decided to use a Polaris 1965 dial in the E 855, with the different changes mentioned above. I still have to measure both dials, to see if this theory has some consistence. 

Looking forward to reading your comments, thoughts and opinion,

Best.

Nicolas

This message has been edited by pingtsai on 2017-11-24 09:27:05 This message has been edited by pingtsai on 2017-11-24 09:34:21

About the Jaeger LeCoultre Memovox Ref. MemovoxE855

The Memovox E855 is a notable iteration within the Memovox family, recognized for its alarm complication and often associated with designs from the 1970s. This reference represents a period when Jaeger LeCoultre explored various aesthetic expressions for its alarm watches, appealing to collectors interested in the brand's mid-century output. It stands as an example of the Memovox's enduring appeal as a functional and distinctive timepiece.

This reference typically features a case, often in stainless steel, housing an automatic movement. The specific caliber, such as the K825 or 825, is known for its dual-crown system, one for time setting and winding, and the other for setting and winding the alarm function. The case diameter is commonly around 37mm, and it is fitted with a crystal, often acrylic, protecting a dial that frequently includes a rotating inner disc for the alarm setting.

For collectors, the Memovox E855 is valued for its mechanical alarm complication and its place in the lineage of Jaeger LeCoultre's alarm watches. Its variations in dial design and case materials offer diversity for those assembling a collection of Memovox models. The E855 appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate the brand's technical innovations and the distinct character of its alarm timepieces from this era.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal. K825
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
37mm
Dial
Silver
Crystal
Hesalite

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
CR
crown comfort
Nov 21, 2017

yes, the dials have a lot in common. They do serve a very different purpose and will have a different wirst feel, but they are unmistakenly Memovoxes. The LeCoultre Polaris is my favourite. What a watch! CC

BI
Bill
Nov 21, 2017

Hard to deny that they are very close but still look very different. Great pictures. Bill

HS
HSTE
Nov 21, 2017

Top notch pictures of to fantastic watches my friend! Cheers, HSTE

TI
Tim_M
Nov 21, 2017

But I believe that it is the product of coincidence or a series by a single commissioned designer. Since even the most complete manufactures rarely employed full-time designers until the 1990s, I suspect that JLC may have found a Vallee de Joux artist that they particularly liked and offered a series of projects during this period. Unlike many instances of Gerald Genta, Gilbert Albert, and even Jorg Hysek designs, the name of the Polaris' original designer seems to be lost to history. It may be

GE
Gelato Monster
Nov 21, 2017

Thank you Nico. I always learn something from your post.

HS
hs111
Nov 21, 2017

.. the way and circumstances it came into my house - very special memories & ocassion in a loved city, when a now very good friend so kindly consulted me @ a certain Horology store & watchmaker.. With that E855 my Purist story began. ( well actually the TTP 68 preceded it), and it changed my life.. Unfortunately I had missed the ss Paris Edition of the TTP65. Back to your couple, to me a closely related pair, distinctly different, yet close a well. Thx for this very nice Pas-de-Deux ! Best, my f

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