Vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox, Alarm watch, Two tone dial, Rare Case, Cal. 814 from 1950's

Regular price $2,800.00
USA & EU: Taxes and import duties included
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This vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox is one of the most historically important watches ever made by the "watchmaker's watchmaker." Introduced in 1950 at the Basel Fair, Jaeger-LeCoultre's alarm wristwatch was one of the most significant releases within the watch industry. Signed "LeCoultre" on the dial, this example was destined for the American market - the shorter signature that US collectors know so well.

This LeCoultre Memovox carries the complication that defined the model line — a mechanical wrist alarm, operated through two crowns: the lower for time, the upper for the alarm. When it goes off, the hammer strikes a post on the caseback, producing the distinctive Memovox buzz. This example is powered by the manual-wind Caliber 814, the improved successor to the original Cal. 489, produced from 1953 to 1964.

The case is where this example stands apart - a rarely seen Schwab & Wuischpard construction with distinctive angular faceted lugs, a 10K gold-filled bezel, and a stainless steel back, stamped S&W. These sculpted lugs turn up far less often than the standard lug Memovox cases of the period.

✓ Professional inspection by our watchmaker — serviced and running well
✓ One-year warranty
✓ Express shipping included
✓ Carefully packed and ready to wear

CASE:

  • Stainless steel case with 10K gold-filled bezel
  • Case maker's stamp: S&W (Schwab & Wuischpard, New York)
  • Case diameter: 34mm
  • Lug to lug: 41mm
  • Thickness: 11mm
  • Angular faceted lugs
  • Two crowns - time and alarm

DIAL:

  • Original two-tone silvered dial
  • Center alarm disc with triangular alarm pointer
  • Applied gold markers with Arabic 12
  • Gold dauphine hands with sweep seconds

MOVEMENT:

  • LeCoultre Caliber 814, manual wind
  • 17 jewels, twin-barrel construction - separate power for time and alarm
  • Mechanical alarm complication with caseback-strike hammer
  • American market movement with VXN import stamp
  • Serviced and running well, alarm functioning
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:

  • Original dial and hands with correct proportions

  • Correct case style and movement caliber

  • Matching serial numbers where applicable

  • 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:

  • Reverso models from the 1930s–1950s

  • Early Memovox alarm watches

  • Triple-date and moonphase models

  • 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.

Additional photos or videos of the watch

We can send additional photos if needed, including close-ups of the watch movement, back case, or any other specific details.

Simply contact us here, and a member of our team will be happy to assist!

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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