Comments:
The Jaeger Lecoultre Dualmatic. It was a very handsome watch. It was a big boy too.
forward and backward but still in Y2K
Since some seem to be asking about watches we would like to see recreated or revisited, I would like to see a 2019 new vision of the JLC Master Compressor Memovox, although the original version from 2003, only 15 years ago, does not seem dated when I look at pics from the wide world web, reproduced here. Do any members own this or have they owned it and since let it go? I'd like to hear some personal perspectives on it. It does appeal to me. I could buy one used of course, but I keep hoping JLC will unveil a new modern sport watch with alarm and with new movement. Would others like it as well?
I remember mine very well. I let it go.
The Jaeger Lecoultre Dualmatic. It was a very handsome watch. It was a big boy too.
I still like my JLC MCC
Here on a gray strap w/ red stitching and perched on a sculpture.
It's pretty close to a perfect daily watch.
The 41.5mm size works for most; the steel case is versatile and tough; the lume is abundant enough to work well; the alarm is a friendly complication with many uses. Also, with an internal dive bezel and locking crowns, the watch is suitable for light-duty diving.
I have personally handled all versions except the platinum (I remain hopeful), and this is the watch that people with Rolex money should buy pre-owned. Prices have settled, and there's no losing if you buy privately and sell privately. JLC's service costs are shockingly reasonable (I paid $910 for a full overhaul of my Amvox2 chronograph, among other fair charges). For $5,500 (steel with strap) to $7,500 (steel with bracelet), this is a tough watch to beat. You could have one of these on a strap for the price of a new Rolex Oyster Perpetual.
As for reliability, I have found these to be tough. Caliber 918 isn't terribly sophisticated, but it's tough, precise, and the alarm is potent. Across dozens of examples examined, I've found no water intrusion issues. The Compressor crown seals age better than their screw-down crown counterparts because the Compressors only "compress" rather than thread through the crown seals.
Moreover, I've long suspected that the Compressor crowns offer more water security when not locked than a screw-down crown that's out of its sleeve. This is important when buying an older watch, because many "dreaded previous owners" (DPO) shower, bathe, and even swim after setting and forgetting their crowns. A watch that's smarter than its first owner has some advantages for second and third owners.
Best,
Tim
Definitely towards the top of my shopping list...
In exactly the combination you’ve shown - with the honey coloured calf strap 👍🏻
I had one some years back and initially loved it...
...but unfortunately the compressor crowns spoiled it for me. I have a quite thin wrist and although the size of the watch wasn’t a problem, the crowns stuck into the back of my hand and soon became annoying. I also found them fiddly to use. Great watch but it had to go. Regards Kev.
I loved it since it was unveiled. And got it a few months after. I let it go for the Amvox One Ti, in 2006. The pros? A very cool aesthetics, a modern Polaris, and a good size.
It was the first Master Compressor, and the introduction of the Compressor Crown was an interesting solution, too.
The Cons?
The domed and engraved case back is not super comfortable, on the wrist.
The Cons?
The domed and engraved case back is not super comfortable, on the wrist.
AND... The Cal 918 doesn't offer a quick set of the date, which is a bit fastidious.
But each time I see one, my heart beats.
Yes, I would like to see a new Compressor. YES! Why giving up?
Best,
Nicolas
But each time I see one, my heart beats.
Yes, I would like to see a new Compressor. YES! Why giving up?
Best,
Nicolas
Very interesting, Nicolas. I'm glad you still appreciate the MC Memovox. Do you still have the Amvox One Ti?
Whereas the crowns are more conventional with the Amvox One, the case sizes are very similar, so they should wear about the same. Does the Amvox have a less domed caseback? I do prefer the dial of the MC Memovox. Your comment about the inconvenient non-quick set date also applies to the Amvox, since they share the 918 movement. And it makes me feel better about my belief that introducing modern movements remains relevant rather than mere nuisance. How I wish I knew what JLC is developing behind closed doors! Warmly, Marc
The amvox One has a flat case back, and no, I don't have it anymore. As for the movement, the Cal 956 was used in the TT Polaris 1965 and 1968, in 2008. That was a new movement with...
A quick set of the date.
Well, as for me (and most of you know)...
I think the Compressors were sexy beasts. The 41.5mm size is very wearable (but seemed large, at the time), and I was hoping for a 42 or 43mm re-launch, since the 46mm was too large for most wrists.
The Polaris is nice, but IMO is a cheap substitute.
-Dean
I still have mine...
It is a very nice watch and I love it! ...but I somehow feel it is somewhat fragile. I'm hanging on to it, but I don't consider it a daily...
Thank you...
Your post made me happy. I feel this model is underestimated. The rich sound of the alarm truly fills me with joy and you can put it on leather, rubber or bracelet... It just works.
You're welcome. Glad I could help you enjoy your watch a bit more. [nt]
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Never got to try one, but like it has the gold medallion on back too [nt]
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