Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox International 2010

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amanico revisits the 2010 Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox International, a significant reintroduction of the alarm watch. This post highlights its reworked case, new movement, and unique 'International' designation, distinguishing it from traditional world time complications.

In 2010, after a few years of interruption, Jaeger Lecoultre came back with a new Memovox.

Reworked case and bezel, new movement, these are the key points of the 2010 Memovox.

But Jaeger Lecoultre came with a special version, the Memovox International, whose case is 40 mm big and 14 mm high.

Not a world time, since you don't have the cities of the world coupled with a 24 hours ring.

Hence maybe the choice of the name " international " rather than " World Time ".

The " International " has a dedicated dial.

Historically speaking, the fans will certainly remember the Ref 3160, a prestigious member of the 1958 Jubilé, along with the Memovox Parking and the... Geophysic.

The Reference 3160:

The International comes in steel:

In Rose Gold:

And in an ultra rare and trendy version, the Colette, which was made in only three pieces.

The name " Colette ", the famous parisian trendy shop replaces Paris. And the case, in steel is PVD coated.

A close up of the dials of these three versions.

Two things I would have preferred, on that " International ":

- A circular location of the cities of the world, ala 3160.

- No date. The date, here, eats the alarm indices.

The 6 / 9 / 12 hour markers make me think of the Polaris 1965 dial, somewhat.

Mechanically, the 2010 Memovox is a great improvement, as it houses the Cal 956, which is a truly modern alarm movement.

While the former versions ( Reveil or Memovox ) housed the Cal 918, the big improvement with the 956 is that it allows a quick set of the date. No more movements backward and forward between 10 PM and 3 AM to change the date!

The 956 appeared in the Tribute To Polaris, in 2008, and a few years before, in the Extreme World Alarm under a different denomination, the Cal 912.

So, how do you see it? A cool and interesting watch, or a missed opportunity?

Looking forward to reading your comments and thoughts.

Best,

Nicolas

This message has been edited by amanico on 2016-06-27 00:35:29

About the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Ref. Polaris1965

The Memovox Polaris 1965 is a notable early iteration of Jaeger-LeCoultre's alarm-equipped diver's watch. This reference is distinguished by its triple-crown configuration and internal rotating bezel, a design that set it apart from other alarm watches of its era. It represents a significant development in the Memovox line, moving towards a more robust and purpose-built aesthetic while retaining the signature mechanical alarm function. The Polaris 1965 is recognized for its specific case construction and dial layout that differentiate it from subsequent Polaris models.

This particular reference features a stainless steel case, typically measuring 42mm in diameter, which was substantial for its time. It houses a self-winding mechanical movement, specifically the Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 825, known for its reliability and integrated alarm mechanism. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal, contributing to its vintage profile. The design prioritizes legibility and functionality, with a black dial providing contrast for the luminous markers and hands.

For collectors, the Memovox Polaris 1965 holds interest as an original example of the Polaris series. Its relatively limited production and distinctive design elements make it a sought-after piece. It appeals to those who appreciate the historical evolution of the Memovox line and the brand's early ventures into watches with enhanced water resistance and specialized functions. The Polaris 1965 is a foundational model within the broader Memovox family.

Specifications

Caliber: JLC 825

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 42mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 200m

Crystal: Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

The Memovox International offers more of a World Time indication than a full complication, serving as a reminder of time zones rather than a true world time display with city names.
While the date window is acceptable, the absence of city names written in the same style as the original Memovox International is a missed opportunity. The Colette version is seen as a mistake for breaking the limited edition status of the 'normal' version.
The touch of blue, combined with blue strap stitching and PVD, makes the Colette version distinctly different and beautiful.
The Memovox International, particularly the LE version, was tempting for some collectors but ultimately deemed too formal for their needs at the time.

The Discussion

hs111

Jun 27, 2016

.. Generally speaking, more WT- indication than complication for me. - However it was a nice & cool Black Knight + it had Alarm. - But The real WT feel would not materialise, just a reminder on the World of Time-Zones.. Thus, recently I had let it go into a nice house.. Here some farewell greetings.. MMV International Guess, one cannot keep it all.. Best, my dear friend hs PS: perfect pics, needless to say; +1 on your remarks about the cities in a ring & the superfluous date window..

TheMadDruid

Jun 27, 2016

The touch of blue makes it such a different watch from the others, couples with the blue stitching in the strap, and the PVD. Beautiful.

foversta

Jun 27, 2016

Thanks for this reminder because this version was totally out of my radar screen. Fx

blomman Mr Blue

Jun 27, 2016

The date window I have no problem with... I actually think it is good on this size of a watch. What I would have loved to see differently is the city names - written in the same way as on the original Memovox International. The Colette version - I think a big mistake from JLC to break the LE of the "normal" version... But then again, it is hard to beat the original! Best Blomman

JLC Enthusiast

Jul 5, 2016

I agree about the LE version. I tried one on about 3 years ago and was very very tempted. It was just a bit too formal for what I was looking for at the time. Though it would fit perfectly now if I had the money... Thanks for posting the pictures and post. Good memories of a watch hunt.

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Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox International 2010

About the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Ref. Polaris1965

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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