If you want a quality, discreet alarm watch then you can do no better than a Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox. Model reference 144.8.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
Jaeger-LeCoutre watches are not easy to date, and we do not have papers for this watch. We have researched similar models that do have paperwork and they all seem to be from circa 1998, so we are happy to go ahead with that.
CONDITION
The Memovox history goes back to 1950, and it was designed to compete with the Vulcain Cricket that was launched in 1949. The name Memovox roughly translates from Latin for the Voice of Memory. JLC were smart in having two crowns and two springs – one for the alarm, and one to wind the watch. This set up is the same as we have in this watch. The top crown winds and sets the alarm, and the indicator for the alarm is a disc in the centre of the dial that revolves when the crown is turned anti clockwise when pulled out. To set the alarm, push the crown in and wind it up. Both crowns in this watch are signed, and the tone of the alarm is far less harsh than older Memovox watches we have had. This is because the hammer hit a gong mounted on the case back, rather than a peg on older Memovox models. The case is unpolished so will show some marks, but the sapphire crystal is excellent. On the case back we find the gold medallion showing this is a Master Control, tested for 1,000 hours. The dial is clean, but the lume in the hands does have some marks. The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour if preferred. The original JLC deployant steel clasp is fitted.
This watch will be supplied with an original presentation box, and our Certificate of Authenticity.
This watch has been checked against the Watch Register and has not been reported as lost, stolen or implicated in fraud, and a copy of that certificate will also be included.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 37.6 mm
Width without crown 35.8 mm
Between lugs 18 mm
Lug to lug length 42.7 mm
Case Thickness 11.6 mm
All sizes are approximate. The watch is photographed on a wrist of 190mm/7.5 inches.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
From 1st September 2021 we will be planting a tree for every watch we sell, working with the International Tree Foundation (Est 1922) to make this business positive on carbon. By buying anything pre owned you are effectively reusing what already exists, but this takes it further and makes us feel good.