Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox E 877 Black Dial
Vintage

Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox E 877 Black Dial

By amanico · Feb 22, 2009 · 62 replies
amanico
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
62 replies8312 views0 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

Amanico provides a quick view of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox E 877, a distinctive black-dialed alarm watch from the 1970s. This post explores how the E 877 broke from traditional Memovox aesthetics with its unique case shape and sporty character, offering a fresh perspective on JLC's design evolution.

62 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →
The 70ies began with a strange watch, the E 877.

Before, the Memovoxes were only round watches, with classically shaped cases.

Then, things change a bit.

The Cal 916 is housed on classic Memovoxes, like the so called Speed Beat ( Ref E 875 ) :



Where things are a bit different is that the Cal 916 was also used for " round ovale " or rectangular square cases.



Compared to the Cal 815 / 825, the 916 is more modern, allowing some improvements as the quick set of the Date, for example, and a bi directional rotor instead of the Bumper.

This is the evolution of the Cal 916 we find nowadays in the Amvox I, or the Master Compressor Memovox ( Cal 918 )!

Here we'll have a view on the E 877, which is a " round ovale " shaped case.

Compared to a classic round Memovox, the E 877 has a bigger and thicker case, with half integrated crowns:



Quite impressive, isn't it?

The other particularity is the shape of the bezel with its 14 angles, designed a bit ala Royal Oak.





On the dial, you will find large and short applied indexes, with a luminous dot ( tirtium ) above each of them, and also above the applied stylised " JL " Logo at " 12 ".





The window date is circled at the contrary of the Classic Black E 855:



The inner alarm ring is white, nicely contrasting with the black dial, and the hands are special to this model, as they are skeleted and painted in white with tritium at their end.

The glass is not in plexy, but mineral, and slightly bombed.

So, while the E 855 plays the card of an extrem elegance, the E 877 plays on the ground of a certain sportivity, which also enhances the legibility, and gives a strong and obvious character.

Look at this lovely beast:







The case back is quite original, too.

Round at the center, ovale at the outside part, with quite a lot of writings, as you can see on these following pics:





Well, this is a watch you have to try before judging it.

Let's say that at the beginning, I didn't even consider to add a snowdrop in my collection.

Then I had the chance to try it, to play a bit with it, and to put it on my wrist, and I was more than surprised by its comfort and appeal.



I also think that its appeal is generated by its black dial;, which gives it a real personnality and a lot of charm.

Therefore, when you own some other black Memovoxes, and that you add it in your collection,n the outcome may be very exciting...

A picture is worth a thousand poor words...



Stunning, isn't it?

Hoping that you'll enjoy this quick view,

Best.

Nicolas This message has been edited by amanico on 2009-02-22 08:37:23 This message has been edited by amanico on 2009-02-22 08:38:07 This message has been edited by Dje on 2009-02-25 08:57:43

About the Jaeger LeCoultre Master Mariner Memovox Ref. E877

The Master Mariner Memovox reference E877 is a notable example of Jaeger-LeCoultre's alarm watch production from the late 1960s and early 1970s. This particular reference is distinguished by its robust case design and the integration of the Memovox alarm complication within the Master Mariner line, which was known for its more resilient construction. It represents a period when the brand was exploring more contemporary case shapes while maintaining its horological traditions.

This reference typically features a stainless steel case, often with a cushion or tonneau profile, measuring approximately 39mm in diameter. It houses an automatic winding movement, specifically the Caliber 916, which provides both timekeeping and the distinctive mechanical alarm function. The crystal is commonly acrylic, contributing to its period-correct aesthetic. The movement offers a power reserve suitable for daily wear.

For collectors, the E877 is appealing due to its distinctive aesthetic and the reliable Caliber 916. It offers a blend of practical complication and mid-century design, making it a sought-after piece for those interested in vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre alarm watches. Its variations in dial finish and case execution provide further collecting interest within the broader Memovox family.

Specifications

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

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
FO
foullis
Feb 22, 2009
very nice review, thanks for the share ! [nt]

No message body

AR
Ares501 - Mr Green
Feb 22, 2009
OK so which one

sounds best!!?? and I'm not talking about MMR :0) Thank you for sharing mate + just some 12-15 hours ago I was re-thinking (for 105 time ... that is what us underprivileged guys do my collecting habits and come up with a brilliant idea to collect only Alarm watches due to a fact that this is my favorite "small complication" .... obviously after another your Memo/Amo post I'm in big S So thank you for making me anxious & how it is possible that you always post with small time delay great post / s

AM
amanico
Feb 22, 2009
Maybe we're surfing on the same wave, Damian

As I have two passions in watches: Alarm and Diving watches. And it seems that you too! No micros, here... Wait... No... Best, my friend, and thanks for your nice words. Nicolas

AR
Ares501 - Mr Green
Feb 22, 2009
Tsunami wave my friend

Alarm Diver Enamel MR UN PAM Travarica ..... fill in more please ;0) Best Damian

AM
amanico
Feb 22, 2009
You forgot the Fifty Fathoms, too.

Seems we're in serious trouble, Damian. Only travarica can help us, to forget... Best. Nicolas

NW
nwp627
Feb 22, 2009
NIcolas, your photos and words...

...always give me something to think about, to want, to enjoy. Thank you my friend. N

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Jaeger-LeCoultre forum with 62 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →