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Amanico revisits his Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris 1968, reflecting on how strap choices impact a vintage watch's aesthetic and personal connection. His exploration highlights the unique challenges of pairing straps with dials featuring complex patinas, ultimately advocating for the original Tropic strap to best complement the watch's character. This discussion offers valuable insights for collectors grappling with similar styling dilemmas for their vintage pieces.
Don't get me wrong, I am totally in love with the Tribute To Polaris 1968 ( 1965, too ), but when it comes to Vintage Polaris, I most often wear my beloved 1965, much less the 1968.
But curiously, this is not the Polaris I most often wear, compared to the 1965 and the Deep Sea Alarms.
Was it the end of a love story which is bit more than 8 years old, now?
In the first months of ownership, this one rarely left my wrist.
So, what did happen?
I had a look at my old pictures, and I just realized that for some 3 or 4 years, I wore it with a leather strap, and most often a colored one.
Not bad, but the special patina of the dial, these greenish yellowish indexes don't work that well with a colored strap.
Not that the outcome is bad, but the patina of the indexes is quite complex to associate with a strap.
Now, let's come back to the original strap... A 22 mm Tropic.
The Watch gets more appeal, in my opinion, we more focus on the dial, there is more strenght. It is hard to put in words, but I immediately fell in love, again.
If we do the same experience on the Polaris 65, the outcome is different. Colored calf straps work very well, as well as the Tropic.
But the dial is not the same...
Always ask for the original!
Best,
Nicolas
This message has been edited by amanico on 2014-05-02 03:04:33The 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.
:-) :-) :-)
I have to say, I tried a lot of straps with the TTP65, and finally seem to have landed on the "original" Tropic, as well. The 1965 (vintage or tribute) is easier to match with a wide range of straps, I think, so the task was not as difficult as with the 1968. You are right, that aged lume patina creates a challenge. But the Tropic just seems to work the best and makes the watch perfect for summer and water. I have not worn this watch in several weeks myself -- but I have been missing it, so this
Did you try to find a vintage Tropic strap? A beauty, my friend, a beauty! Best, Nicolas
The strap in my photos is a NOS Tropic rubber strap. It is much more durable than the original strap that came on the Tributes. Costly, but it will probably last forever. Best, respo
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