Vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre 'Disco Volante' Ref. 1946, 18K Solid Gold, Linen Dial, Cal. K818C from 1964
For anyone who wants a gold dress watch that doesn't look like every other gold dress watch, the Disco Volante is a good answer. Collectors gave the design its nickname, Italian for "flying saucer," because of the wide, flat bezel that frames the dial and gives the case its distinctive profile. This example, ref. 1946, is cased in 18K solid gold and dates to 1964 by its serial number.
The case measures 32.8mm across and just 7mm thick, and it sits low and close on the wrist. The broad bezel has a brushed, textured finish that contrasts with the polished inner edge and lugs. Inside the bezel is a gold linen dial with a fine crosshatched texture. It has applied gold batons at 12, 3, 6 and 9, slim printed markers at the remaining hours, and slim gold hands. The dial is quiet and well balanced, typical of Jaeger-LeCoultre design in the 1960s. The movement is the hand-wound LeCoultre caliber K818/C, a proven manual-wind caliber from one of the great Swiss manufactures.
✓ Professional inspection by our watchmaker
✓ One-year warranty
✓ Express shipping included
✓ Carefully packed and ready to wear
CASE:
- 18K solid yellow gold (750), 'Disco Volante' design
- Reference 1946
- Case diameter: 32.8mm
- Lug to lug: 37.5mm
- Thickness: 7mm
- Wide brushed bezel with polished inner edge
DIAL:
- Original gold linen dial
- Applied gold baton markers at 12, 3, 6 and 9
- Printed markers at the remaining hours
- Slim gold hands, time-only layout
MOVEMENT:
- LeCoultre caliber K818/C
- Hand-wound mechanical movement
- Serial number dates the watch to 1964
- Swiss made
About Brand
What makes Jaeger-LeCoultre an important vintage watch brand?
Jaeger-LeCoultre, founded in 1833 in the Vallée de Joux, is regarded as one of the most technically accomplished Swiss watch manufacturers in history. Often referred to as “the watchmaker’s watchmaker,” the brand is highly respected in the vintage watch market for its in-house movements, technical innovation, and refined design. Vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre watches are valued for their mechanical excellence and understated elegance.
Why is Jaeger-LeCoultre significant in vintage watch history?
Jaeger-LeCoultre played a pivotal role in advancing watchmaking technology throughout the 20th century. The brand supplied movements to other leading Swiss manufacturers and developed ultra-thin calibers, complex complications, and innovative case designs. Iconic creations such as the Reverso, introduced in 1931, and early Memovox alarm watches are now considered landmarks in vintage watch history.
Are vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre watches suitable for everyday wear?
Many vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre watches were designed for daily use, particularly dress and professional models. Watches powered by movements such as the caliber 450, caliber 470, or early caliber 8xx and 9xx families are known for their precision and smooth operation. When properly serviced, a vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre watch can be worn regularly while retaining its value as a collectible vintage watch.
What should collectors look for when buying a vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre watch?
When purchasing a vintage watch from Jaeger-LeCoultre, collectors should focus on originality and technical condition. Important aspects include:
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Original dial and hands with correct proportions
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Correct case style and movement caliber
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Matching serial numbers where applicable
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Evidence of professional servicing
Because Jaeger-LeCoultre produced many variations, correct configuration and originality play a significant role in determining value.
Which vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre models are most collectible?
Some of the most sought-after vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre watches include:
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Reverso models from the 1930s–1950s
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Early Memovox alarm watches
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Triple-date and moonphase models
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Ultra-thin dress watches powered by manual-wind calibers
These models are prized for their innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless design within the vintage watch market.
Are vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre watches a good investment?
Jaeger-LeCoultre offers strong long-term appeal in the vintage watch market. While historically undervalued compared to some peers, collector interest has grown steadily as appreciation for the brand’s technical contributions increases. Well-preserved vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre watches, especially early Reverso and Memovox models, continue to attract strong demand.
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Watch servicing information
All watches in our shop are in full working condition, having been professionally serviced by a certified watchmaker. Each watch undergoes a final inspection prior to shipping to ensure quality and reliability.
Shipping
Standard Delivery: 7-21 business days, depending on location. Free for all orders.
Express Delivery: 3-10 business days, depending on location, at extra cost. Free for orders 1000$ and more.
Processing Time: 3-5 business days for all orders, regardless of shipping method.
All parcels are fully insured and carefully packaged to ensure they arrive safely. For specific delivery estimates based on your country, please visit this page.
Warranty
Each watch purchased from us includes a warranty to ensure its quality and performance. The warranty covers movement and functional issues, with specific terms based on the type of watch (1 year for mechanical and automatic watches, 6 months for quartz watches). For more details, please visit this page.
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