Vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox, Ref. E874, Automatic Cal. 916 "Speedbeat," Blue Onyx Indices, Gold-Plated Case, Alarm Watch
The Memovox is Jaeger-LeCoultre's alarm watch, and this Ref. E874 is the US-market version of the design. It was cased in the States by the Star Watch Case Company and signed on both the caseback and the movement in the North American convention of the period. The round case measures 36mm and is finished in gold plating - the E874 being the gold-plated version of the classic round case, here stamped Plaqué Or 80 Microns inside the back.
The champagne sunburst dial is what defines this example. It is clean and warm, with applied markers carrying deep blue inlay, a date aperture at three, and the alarm triangle riding the red inner setting track that every Memovox collector knows. Two crowns run the watch: one sets and winds the alarm, the other handles the time and date. The gold finish shows light honest wear at the high points, consistent with a plated case of this age.
Inside is the caliber 916, the movement that makes this generation worth attention. Introduced in 1969, it was the first Jaeger-LeCoultre alarm caliber to use a fully rotating rotor rather than the older bumper system, the first to run at the modern 28,800 vph, and it brought a 45-hour power reserve with a center-mounted alarm pin. It has been serviced and all functions, including the alarm, are working as they should.
✓ Professional inspection by our watchmaker
✓ One-year warranty
✓ Express shipping included
✓ Carefully packed and ready to wear
CASE:
- Gold-plated case, Plaqué Or 80 Microns, by Star Watch Case Company (US-market)
- Case diameter: 36mm
- Lug-to-lug: 40.5mm
- Thickness: 12mm
- Two crowns: alarm setting/winding and time/date
- Caseback engraved with serial 1272336
DIAL:
- Champagne sunburst dial
- Applied hour markers with deep blue stone
- Date window at 3 o'clock
- Blued baton hands
MOVEMENT:
- Jaeger-LeCoultre automatic Caliber 916 "Speedbeat"
- 17 jewels, adjusted to three positions
- full-rotor automatic winding with alarm and date
- Swiss made
- Serviced; all functions working, including alarm
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.
Additional photos or videos of the watch
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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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