JLC Polaris 65 & Birth Year Watch Acquisition

Baron - Mr Red · 2016-05-02T03:29:08Z

Baron - Mr Red shares his Parisian adventure, acquiring a rare JLC Polaris 65, a birth year watch, and discovering a new favorite tea. A collector's tale.

Baron - Mr Red

WPS member · Jaeger-LeCoultre forum

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Baron - Mr Red shares a personal narrative intertwining his passions for horology and tea, recounting a serendipitous trip to Paris where he achieved three significant 'targets' at once. His post beautifully illustrates how collecting extends beyond watches into other refined interests, creating a holistic lifestyle. This article captures the community's appreciation for his unique collecting philosophy and finds.

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Forgive the meandering here........

I have a few obsessions in my life. One of them is tea. Oolong tea is a particular passion. But Darjeeling is also a particular favourite. In terms of black teas, I have found just one that I really love from the Amba Estate in Sri Lanka. I have tasted many black teas, but the Amba Estate was, to my palate, just head and shoulders above the rest. Last year, the head tea-grower at the estate decided to leave the estate. She was a genius. As a result of her departure, many tea suppliers have decided not to purchase supplies as they want to see how the estate fares under new management. So, I have about 50 grammes left of Amba tea in my stores...and very little chance of finding more for the foreseeable future.

One week ago, a few guys headed to Paris for a quick GTG. I went there with no expectations of adding to my collection or of hunting any targets. Yet....i hit three in one go.

Bang! I saw an original Polaris 65 with the JLC inscription and in superb condition. I saw it....I had to have it. It is a watch where I have some history, but I think it is fair to say I have never owned this version and it is a very good fit within my collection. A big target hit.

Up until this point, there is no watch with the same birth year as me. Now there. Within Rolex, I find it very hard to find a 1965. But now, I have a birth year watch. Bang!

And finally, with the assistance of my resident French adviser, we visited a famous French tea supplier. I bought some Oolong and saw the they had a black tea that I had never tasted before. Shangri-La Gold from Nepal. I bought 100g. I had no particular expectation of this tea other than curiosity.

Bang! I tried it on returning to the UK and it was a killer. It is, for me, on a par with Amba Estate. More importantly, I can buy it!

Three targets hit in one trip. Actually, to be fair, there was more than three targets hit. Making new friends is always a target and that certainly happened on this GTG.

This message has been edited by Baron on 2016-05-02 03:39:11

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 JLC Polaris 65 with the JLC inscription is noted as a rarer version compared to the LeCoultre variant, making the author's acquisition particularly significant.
The author shares his journey into appreciating different teas, emphasizing that personal taste dictates preference, much like watch collecting, and recommends various tea suppliers.
The community celebrates the author's ability to find a birth year watch, a common collecting goal that adds sentimental value.
The post highlights the joy of discovering new passions, such as the Shangri-La Gold tea, which provided an unexpected delight comparable to a long-sought favorite.
The discussion touches on the allure of vintage watch shopping in Paris, suggesting it's a fruitful destination for collectors seeking rare pieces.
A fellow collector expresses admiration for the author's Polaris collection, noting the specific vintage versions he owns are distinct from his own.

The Discussion

RG1

May 2, 2016

for your superb catch. And oolong is one of my favourite tea. cheers.. Ronald

Baron - Mr Red

May 2, 2016

.....next time you are in London, we should share a cup.

crown comfort

May 2, 2016

It was a real pleasure meeting you. Cheers, CC

Baron - Mr Red

May 2, 2016

Many new friends.....as you know!

Baron - Mr Red

May 2, 2016

I can see a small GTG in London in November may be on the cards.....

NT931

May 2, 2016

I love tea as well - whether oolongs, green tea, or black tea - each type of tea has it's time and place. I cannot imagine a day without tea! Our watches are much the same. In a busy workday, a cup of tea, a brief glimpse at what's on our wrists ... these are the little restoratives for our souls. Congrats on the lovely Polaris and the Nepali tea! I must get some Shangri-la to try as well.

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JLC Polaris 65 & Birth Year Watch Acquisition

About the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Ref. Polaris1965

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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