amanico[JLC Moderator]
338397
Jaeger Lecoultre Polaris Memovox 50th Anniversary: Some key points
Nov 08, 2018,07:35 AM
We discussed the Polaris Memovox when it was unveiled at the SIHH 2018.
The main interrogation was to know how we should consider it: A Re Edition or a modern interpretation of a Cult watch.
I said, and I confirm after all these months, that this is not a re edition, but a Polaris revisited, exactly like what Rolex did with some of their cult watches such as the GMT-MASTER, the Submariner, the Sea-Dweller or the Daytona. Close, but different and more modern.
Here are the key points:
The case, first: Same size, yes, but different. The case is brushed, the lugs are larger, generously beveled with care.
The crowns: Thinner than the original and the Tribute. Not hatch-crossed anymore.
The dial: Grained, sunburst for the alarm disc, applied indices filled with superluminova, different hands, here again, we gain in modernity and quality, too.
The close up which will help you to make the difference.
The case back follows the rest:
Decorated with care. The screws are here, to reveal the fact that this is not a super Compressor Case anymore, but the logo is here, as a reminder. the 16 holes in the original and the Tribute are not on the case back anymore, replaced by these circles. Another nod to the past, and to the original.
You almost got my point: I find it is a very nice watch, made with care, oozing quality. Less close to the original than the Tribute, more modern.
Now, I would have gone a bit farther: Screw-in crowns rather than compressor crowns, on this model, and a screwed case back rather than these screws.
All in all, I think Jaeger Lecoultre did a great job on the perceived quality, I would have liked a bit more efficiency in the water resistance.
What do you think?
Best,
Nicolas