LeCoultre Polaris Memodate E 859 Auction Guide
Vintage

LeCoultre Polaris Memodate E 859 Auction Guide

By amanico · Oct 23, 2019 · 30 replies
amanico
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Amanico delves into the historical intricacies of the LeCoultre Polaris Memodate E 859, prompted by an upcoming Phillips auction. His detailed breakdown of production numbers and dial variations offers crucial insights for collectors and enthusiasts, highlighting the rarity and evolution of this iconic vintage diver's watch. This post serves as an invaluable reference for understanding the nuances of the Polaris E 859's lineage.

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A Lecoultre Polaris Reference E 859 " Memodate " will soon be auctioned by Phillips. 

It is the opportunity to remind some facts. 

The Polaris E 859 certainly is a rare watch, with only 50 prototypes made in 1963 ( not issued, just prototypes ), 500 watches made in 1965 with this dial: 

The Polaris, which belonged to the Curator of the Jaeger Lecoultre Heritage Gallery.


The Polaris 1965: 


And, perhaps, 1214 watches made from 1967 to 1970 with this dial: 


If I said " perhaps ", it is because the Manufacture stated that 1150 Polaris E 859 were produced in 1968, 55 in 1970, and only 9 watches in 1967. 

The two years which let me perplex are 1970 ( I didn't see even one ), and 1967 with the estimation of only 9 pieces. 

Indeed, I saw two E 859 from 1967 in the metal, and, in pictures, 7 others. I think it is highly improbable that I saw 100 % of the Polaris made in 1967... There may be a bit more!

Still, the 1967 is probably the rarest of the Polaris ever made. 

That's for the rarity. Now, some words about the dial... 

The Polaris " Memodate " certainly is the rarest, prototypes apart as I only saw one. The one to be auctioned is the fourth I saw... Only four... 

Here are the four of them: 

Credit picture: Jglydon:


Credit Antiquorum:


Credit Phillips:


And the fourth, which is the one to soon be auctioned: 


Exactly the same watch ( with the same case number ) which was auctioned some years ago by Christies: 


Do all the Polaris 1965 and 1968 come with some wording on the alarm disc? No. Only the Lecoultre. Never the Jaeger Lecoultre. 

Example of a Jaeger Lecoultre Polaris 1965. 


A Jaeger Lecoultre Polaris 1968. 


The Lecoultre Polaris 1965 and 1968: 


And to end in beauty, a Jaeger Lecoultre Polaris 1967: 


So, to make it clear, only on the Lecoultre Polaris you will find a wording, most of the time " Memovox " and only in a very cases, " Memodate ", and the mention " Memodate " will only be seen on the 1967 version. Another interesting point, the case numbers are very close: 1, 099, 785, 1, 099, 714, and 1, 099, 761.The fourth one, I don't know ( Jglydon's one ).

Hence the interest of this Polaris 1967. I am curious to see if this specificity will be reflected by the outcome of this auction... 

Best,

Nicolas

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

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The Discussion
BI
Bill
Oct 23, 2019
Some polaris love. New and old.

AM
amanico
Oct 23, 2019
This Duo of chocolates is killing me! [nt]

CT
ctzn
Oct 23, 2019
Very interesting, would the 1963 Memodate be the first use of the Polaris name? [nt]

AM
amanico
Oct 23, 2019
The Memodate has only be seen in the Polaris 1967. The 1963 is the Polaris Proto, only. [nt]

CT
ctzn
Oct 23, 2019
Ah, thanks for the clarification! [nt]

TY
Tyo
Oct 23, 2019
thank you for the information. I didn't know such a dial ever existed. Do you have any information about the rubber strap? [nt]

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