Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris 1968 E 859 Ownership
Vintage

Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris 1968 E 859 Ownership

By amanico · May 29, 2018 · 26 replies
amanico
WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum
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Amanico celebrates a dual milestone: the 50th anniversary of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris 1968 and the 11th anniversary of his personal ownership of the E 859 reference. His post offers a deeply personal reflection on the journey with this iconic vintage diver, highlighting its enduring charm and versatility.

Two birthdays in one...

First and most important, as you well know, this year is the 50th birthday of the Polaris 1968... The 53th birthday of the Polaris 1965 and the 55th birthday of the Polaris Prototype.

But i is also, on a more personal note, the 11th birthday of MY Polaris 1968.

Even if as soon as I got it, I sent it to the Manufacture for a service... I had to wait 9 months before getting it back. 
















It has lived many things with me... And made some unexpected friends...



Three years after, I was gifted a brand new plexy. 

After many tries, I finally opted for its original strap, a tropic...



But I tried many combinations...



Needless to say that I take great care of this watch. 

Best,

Nicolas

About the Jaeger LeCoultre Memovox Ref. Polaris1968

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Polaris 1968 is a notable iteration of the Memovox line, distinguished by its multi-crown design and internal rotating bezel. This particular reference is recognized for its robust case construction and the integration of an alarm function, a signature complication of the Memovox series, presented in a sport-oriented configuration. It represents a specific period in the development of the Memovox collection, offering a distinct aesthetic and functional profile.

This timepiece features a stainless steel case, measuring 42mm in diameter. It is powered by an automatic movement, specifically the Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber K825, which provides the time, alarm, and an internal rotating bezel function. The crystal protecting the dial is acrylic, contributing to its period-correct appearance. The movement offers a power reserve suitable for daily wear.

For collectors, the Memovox Polaris 1968 holds interest due to its unique design elements and its place within the broader history of alarm watches. Its three-crown configuration, with one crown for winding and setting the time, another for setting and activating the alarm, and a third for operating the internal bezel, makes it a distinctive piece. The watch appeals to those who appreciate mid-century sports watch designs with integrated complications.

Specifications

Caliber
Caliber K825
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
42mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
200m
Crystal
Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
BI
Bill
May 29, 2018

And full set all preserved for history. I think when this watch hits 100 it will still be a winner. Thanks for sharing. Bill

BI
Bill
May 29, 2018

You have helped 1000's of us find our dream watches. Best Bill

HO
Horology75
May 29, 2018

Lucky man & May you celebrate many anniversaries of this iconic creation !

RE
renerod
May 29, 2018

An also to you, the happy owner! Cheers. René

EM
emcquillan
May 29, 2018

Enough to make me seriously consider a hunt. Just stunning and ultra cool. On a different topic, but related to the 9 months service time: It's hit home recently that life is terribly finite. What happens if I send pieces in for service and get hit by a bus? How do I ensure they are returned to my wife and/or children? Any suggestions welcome. Inform AD's of my families coordinates and my family of my collection? Best,

JM
jml_watches
May 30, 2018

Good that you have a full set too. But it's when you start to have history with a watch , that it really becomes yours. Keep enjoying it! Cheers JML

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