
Amanico's in-depth review of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris II, reference E 870, offers a rare look at a lesser-known but historically significant diving watch. This article highlights the unique aesthetic and limited production of the Polaris II, providing valuable context for collectors interested in JLC's vintage dive watch lineage. Amanico's detailed analysis and personal insights make this a crucial resource for understanding this distinctive timepiece.
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The Master Mariner Memovox reference E877 is a notable example of Jaeger-LeCoultre's alarm watch production from the late 1960s and early 1970s. This particular reference is distinguished by its robust case design and the integration of the Memovox alarm complication within the Master Mariner line, which was known for its more resilient construction. It represents a period when the brand was exploring more contemporary case shapes while maintaining its horological traditions.
This reference typically features a stainless steel case, often with a cushion or tonneau profile, measuring approximately 39mm in diameter. It houses an automatic winding movement, specifically the Caliber 916, which provides both timekeeping and the distinctive mechanical alarm function. The crystal is commonly acrylic, contributing to its period-correct aesthetic. The movement offers a power reserve suitable for daily wear.
For collectors, the E877 is appealing due to its distinctive aesthetic and the reliable Caliber 916. It offers a blend of practical complication and mid-century design, making it a sought-after piece for those interested in vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre alarm watches. Its variations in dial finish and case execution provide further collecting interest within the broader Memovox family.
Thank you. You're putting the alarm complication subliminally into my mind...
... thank you for bringing us this wonderful review, very educational actually. have seen this Polaris II before, but did not know it has very interesting story behind. one amazing thing is that you mentioned there was only 1120 pieces produced during 4 years period, however you have owned three of them??!!! i am jealous, my friend. by the way, have you seen other more pieces existing somewhere before? and why MJLC only produced such small number? anyway, i really find your in-depth review deepe
Yep, 1120 pieces on a 4 years period. I was on to buy the red dialed Polaris II, indeed, but I passed on it as I already own the Grey dial, which is in stunning condition. I sawq several blue dials, 2 red Dials, and only one grey dial, which seems to be, with the red Pola II, the rarest. Why did JLC produced 1120 Pola II? Well, my guess is that the Quartz era threatnened in a very serious way Mechanical watches- we were in the Mid 70ies- and the Polaris II design is very strongly linked to a per
Wait, my friend, I still have some " alarming " threads to post... Don't you think that the Alarm is as friendly as it is captivating? what I find really stunning and impressive is all the Richness and the Diversity JLC demonstrates in the development of this complication. Best, and thanks for your nice comments. Nicolas
Huge congrats for the post, and the infos. I have only one bad picture from the red dial version. Excellent post Nicolas, excellent ! King Regards, Milan
You just made my day! Or ruined my good nights sleep… Depending on how to look at it! Thank you Nicolas for a great review and stunning photos! Very interesting and education – love it! The first photo of the org Polaris -65 will haunt me in my dreams to night! Both PI and PII are real eye catchers but in very different ways. I must say that while the PI is easier to the eye in a classic sports watch way, while the PII is more funky and “far out” in a good way, IMO. My pick would be the grey one
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