JLC Master Memovox Timer Rose Gold W&W 2022

amanico · 2022-07-20T09:10:27Z

Explore the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Memovox Timer Rose Gold (Ref. 3161) from Watches and Wonders 2022. Discover collector insights on its design, movement, and aesthetic choices.

amanico

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

29 replies8249 views13 photos

amanico's detailed post from Watches and Wonders 2022 offers a critical look at the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Memovox Timer in Rose Gold. He highlights the refined Master Case and the aesthetic choices that define this iteration of the iconic alarm watch. This article synthesizes community reactions to JLC's design evolution, particularly focusing on the integration of the alarm complication and date function within the Master Control collection.

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In 2020, Jaeger Lecoultre introduced the Master Memovox Timer, a new Memovox, using the new Master Case, totally revisited, refined should I say, thinner ( 12, 39 mm high ), even though it has the same diameter than the former one ( 40 mm ).

The key points of the Memovox Timer were:

- The blend of coolness and elegance, with a superb sunburst blue dial contrasting with the polished applied indices and an eye-catching alarm disc with engraved numerals.

- The generous bevels on the lugs. The case gains in balance and class in its proportions.

- The front part of the Dauphine hands is brushed on one side, polished on the other side.

- The see-through case back which required revisiting the Cal 956 and its alarm components, as the gong is fixed to the case side, now.

- And of course, the fact that the Memovox Timer allows you to know how much time is remaining in a blink of an eye before the alarm chimes. A clear inspiration taken from the 1958 Memovox Parking Ref 3161 or E 856..

The new Memovox Timer, in rose gold, keeps the same ingredients but with a totally different chromatic partition.

I am not a colored gold person, but I must say that this new Memovox Timer is one of the rare exceptions. Here the rose gold case goes very well with the sublime black and grey hues and the golden applied indices / hands.

The sunburst decoration of the black dial is breathtaking.

The outcome? A Timer which is now more elegant than cool looking, compared to the steel version.

A superb object ( of desire ) which has three issues, in my opinion:

- It is limited to 100 pieces, and available only through the Boutiques. The Steel Edition was limited to 250 pieces.

- The retail is very high: 34, 000 Euros. Which is the double of the steel " Timer ".

- Most importantly, I would be mad about a Jaeger Lecoultre Alarm you can set on 24 hours... and without a date!

Looking forward to reading your comments and thoughts,

Best.

Nicolas

About the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Ref. Ref3161

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Parking Ref. 3161 is a specialized variant within the broader Memovox alarm watch series, distinguished by its unique dial complication. Introduced in 1958, this reference was part of Jaeger-LeCoultre's 'Jubilé' year offerings, marking a period of innovation for the brand. It represents a niche application of the alarm function, tailored for a specific, practical purpose.

This reference typically features a stainless steel case, housing a manual-winding alarm movement. The dial is characterized by an inner rotating disc, which is set via a second crown, and features a distinctive 'P' or parking meter graphic. This allows the wearer to set a visual reminder for parking durations, a novel complication for its time. The case dimensions are generally modest, aligning with mid-century watch aesthetics.

For collectors, the Memovox Parking Ref. 3161 is notable for its specific historical context and unique dial execution. Its specialized function and limited production contribute to its desirability, offering a distinct piece of Jaeger-LeCoultre's horological history. It stands as an example of the brand's willingness to integrate practical, albeit unconventional, features into its mechanical timepieces.

Specifications

Caliber: K814

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 37mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: Not specified

Crystal: Plexiglass

Key Points from the Discussion

The black date window on the rose gold Master Memovox Timer significantly enhances its aesthetic appeal compared to the blue steel version, making the watch feel less formal and more versatile with a calf leather strap.
While acknowledging the watch's quality and complexity, some collectors prefer the simpler, classic Memovox design, finding the Timer's additional features less compelling.
The date window on the dial is a point of contention for some, as it disrupts the overall harmony and symmetry of the design. A version without a date, featuring a 24-hour alarm and World Time function, would be highly desirable.
The new Master Memovox Timer, despite its updated metal and color combinations, is perceived by some as not offering substantial innovation beyond aesthetic refinements.
There is a strong preference among some collectors for the regular Memovox over the Timer, particularly if a black or blue dial option were available for the former.
The matching of the date window color to the dial is a commendable design choice by JLC, an aspect many brands could emulate to improve dial aesthetics.
A question was raised regarding the material of the new rotor, specifically whether it is solid gold or plated, in comparison to older designs that featured a 22ct riveted weight.

The Discussion

Arronax

Jul 20, 2022

Thanks for sharing

A bit underwhelming to be honest, it doesn't really offer anything new other than the metal or am I missing something? Absolutely with you about 24hr and no date. I would take the blue and be done with it.

amanico

Jul 20, 2022

The metal and the color of the dial. The rest is the same.

jrwong23 (aka watchthebin)

Jul 20, 2022

I chose this rose gold black instead of the blue steel

Mainly because of the date window. A date window in the same color as the dial changes the looks of the watch completely! Along with a strap change to the regular master control calf leather. I think that shade of brown brings out the rose gold better and makes the watch less formal and more versatile. The combo of the rose gold and black dial also attracted me alot. Interestingly I passed the blue dial steel version when it was launched but this one I placed my deposit during the pre launch Che

Gelato Monster

Jul 20, 2022

gorgeous

This one RG is superb but the price.

orahu

Jul 20, 2022

The black and rose gold — with the dial refinements — are very, very appealing aesthetically. But, the price!

amanico

Jul 20, 2022

Its most problematic issue, I think, too.

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JLC Master Memovox Timer Rose Gold W&W 2022

About the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Ref. Ref3161

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

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