Jaeger-LeCoultre

   I just picked up this nice bumper-auto but I'm unsure of how to open it, this is my first LeCoultre (I collect Omegas) and I'm curious to see the movement and get the reference #'s. I really don't want to damage it but it looks like there is a small slot on the 9:00 side, would this be for opening? Any help would be greatly appreciated, the info I have found suggests that this has a Cal. 813, Ref. 388-870.  Thanks,  Jim

Use a very thin knife, or, if you don't feel very comfortable, give iot to a watchmaker, who will easily open it for you, in less the 20 seconds...



Best,

Nicolas.

  Hi Nicolas, so this is where you primarily reside, I've always wanted a LeCoultre and I purchased this from an estate along with a few Omegas. I thought this would be a good JLC starter watch to get my toes wet, I'm just amazed at the quality of workmanship and I haven't even opened it yet! I'll do that tonite, one more quick question...this came on a nice vintage JB Champion expansion bracelet, would this have been an option or did it originate on a strap?  Thanks for your quick response,  Jim

So, yes, it may well be the correct one.

One thing I don't see very well on your pictures: Is the watch in gold or in stainless steel?

Best,

Nicolas.

  It has a stainless back (D&A), I would of preferred a full stainless case but the price was just too tempting, bumper movement and I've procrastinated too long about taking the JLC plunge. I always conduct a forum and web search first but I will no doubt be asking quite a few newbie questions. Does JLC have a Vintage database such as the one offered by Omega?

   Regards,  Jim 

We're working on it, here.

Please have a look at our reference section about ads and catalogs from the 30ies to the 70ies, it is still work in progress, but we're slowly feeding it.

Best,

Nicolas

This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-12-30 09:51:28

  I opened the case this evening, I was surprised to see the bumper springs completely exposed but the movement is excuted quite well. It looks to have never been serviced with a complete lack of a watchmakers mark. I'm sorry about the quality of the photos so I'll list the reference#'s, Cal K812, 17j, serial# 1393616, case ref. 595-G34, case serial# 958111. I'll send this to my watchmaker next week after the holidays and have him do a complete service and checkup. Is there a serial# database to determine the age or year produced? I read your JLC vs LC blog so the fact that it has a Vacheron import mark doesn't help in dating this movement? I wonder if the movement being produced in Switzerland and assembled in the States would throw off an effective date? Omegas are (+ or -) 2 years. Also where on this forum would I find the vintage advertisements? Thanks for all your help,  Jim 

The movement number is important.

1.393 xxx, that lmeads us to ... 1959.

Another important thing: VXN is not related to Vacheron.

VXN wass a code shared by LeCoultre and Vacheron for importation reasons, that is all.

As for Vintage advertisements, do a search, you may find an important post made my Marv, here.

Best, Jim.

Nicolas. This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-12-30 23:18:51 This message has been edited by amanico on 2010-12-30 23:25:31

Yes, maybe never serviced, or just a good feeling watchmaker did the job...I think the markings on the backcase are HORRIBLE !
I hear a lot it helps for find the product date. I think If you have just this - very big trouble