Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox E 873.21 Yellow Gold
Vintage

Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox E 873.21 Yellow Gold

By blomman Mr Blue · Jan 20, 2019 · 17 replies
blomman Mr Blue
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
17 replies4096 views4 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

Blomman Mr Blue shares an exciting encounter with a Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox E 873.21 in yellow gold, a reference he had never seen in person before. His post not only showcases this distinctive 1970s alarm watch but also provides valuable catalogue images, enriching the historical context for collectors.

The other day when I meet a fellow collector I was also shown this beautiful Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox E 873.21.

The ".21" in the end of the reference indicates Yellow Gold.




The grey-brownish dial match perfectly the warm tone of the gold case.
The E 873 is right in the middle of all the Funky 70s Memovox JLC used to make.
Very cool watch and in gold it adds an extra dimension!
smile




This kind of watch makes me think I should start over and hunt all of them (those who existed) in gold!
After all, now I am in a good age to start to wear gold watches more often!
wink



From the 1972 Memovox catalogue, E 873.21:





But I was not only shown the E 872 in gold, he also showed me 2x steel as well!
The white one I have and very familiar with, the blue one I saw several times... But the gold version, this was the first time I saw it in real!
smile







From the 1972 Memovox catalogue, E 873.42:






BTW, if you were wondering about the different .numbers:

.12=Platinum
.21=18K YG, .22=18K WG (interestingly, I have not been able to identify any RG/PG codes)
.32=Silver
.42=Stainless Steel
.51=Plated metal
.61=14K YG, .62=14K WG
.71=gilt
.72=Rhodium plated


Again, thank you to the owner for showing me these great watches!


Best
Blomman

About the Jaeger LeCoultre Memovox Ref. MemovoxE872

The Memovox E872 is a notable example from the "Funky Memovox" series, primarily produced in the 1970s. This period saw Jaeger-LeCoultre experiment with more unconventional case shapes and dial designs for its alarm watch line, distinguishing these models from earlier, more conservative Memovox iterations. The E872 represents a specific aesthetic direction within this era, appealing to collectors interested in the brand's design evolution during the latter half of the 20th century.

This reference typically features a stainless steel case, often characterized by its distinctive cushion or tonneau shape, which was popular during its production period. It houses an automatic alarm movement, a hallmark of the Memovox family, providing both timekeeping and a mechanical alarm function. The crystal is generally acrylic, consistent with watches of its era, contributing to its vintage appeal.

For collectors, the Memovox E872 offers a tangible connection to a specific design chapter in Jaeger-LeCoultre's history. Its unique case and dial configurations make it a distinct piece within the broader Memovox collection, often sought after by those who appreciate the more adventurous and less common designs from the brand's catalog. It stands as a testament to the diverse range of styles offered under the Memovox name.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal. 916
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
39mm
Dial
Silver
Crystal
Hesalite

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
CF
cfn
Jan 20, 2019

Hi Blomman, The E873 really is a special watch with lots of presence. I inherited this one from my father in 2004. He was the original owner. It always brings a smile to my face when I wear it due to its very special looks. This is not the most discrete of watches. It gets noticed due to the combination of its unique form and strong colors. Thanks for sharing the advertisements. Fun to see. Claus

KA
karmin-watches
Jan 21, 2019

Thanks a lot Blomman for the nice pics and the ads: seems that you have an ad for any JLC watch ever produced ! Have you ever considered putting all this (knowledge, collection and ads) together and release a book on JLC ?? 😏 Am still missing a SS 873 dial combination to have the full set but working on it ! Re. the gold case, you’re right: greyish dial matches very well with the brushed case. You have now reached an age where you can wear them ! All the best Karmin

BL
blomman Mr Blue
Jan 21, 2019

You are correct on both the friend and YG! Best Blomman

BL
blomman Mr Blue
Jan 21, 2019

Good to see your fathers watch is still "alive"! Best Blomman

BL
blomman Mr Blue
Jan 21, 2019

I promisse you a signed copy! You are hunting one more? The Grey/Blue or the Grey/White....? Happy hunting, my friend! Best Blomman

CF
cfn
Jan 21, 2019

Thank you for reminding me of this special watch, unlike anything else I have. So cool that you have the ads as well. Thanks for sharing. The 70’ies were certainly....brown, if nothing else. Haha. Claus

Advertisement

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Jaeger-LeCoultre forum with 17 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →