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Lot Essay
With Jaeger-LeCoultre Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the present watch in 1963 and a Certificate of Service dated November 2006. The watch is delivered with its original rubber "Tropic" strap and extension, two additional Jaeger-LeCoultre straps, one in stainless steel and one in crocodile, Jaeger-LeCoultre presentation box and outer packaging.
Made in 1963, the present Polaris is one of the very first prototypes of this iconic timepiece made, still featuring a solid case back which was exchanged against the pierced version of later series, designed to render the alarm sound more distinct under water. Furthermore believed to be the very first Memovox Polaris prototype to be offered at auction, its rarity is enhanced by its superb, near mint original overall condition and the presence of the original, extendable "Tropic" bracelet. Also called "Marine", it remained in production until the 1970s. Consigned by the original owner, this Memovox Polaris prototype is a treasure for the aficionado of rare and unusual timepieces.
In 1950, Jaeger-LeCoultre released the Memovox, or the "voice of memory", name derived from the Latin words "memories", memory, and "vox", voice. In 1956, a Memovox featuring the Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 815 became the first self-winding alarm watch in history.
One of the Jaeger-LeCoultre's most collectible timepieces, the Memovox Polaris is part of the firm's line of divers watches developed between 1959 and 1970, its name evoking the spirit of adventure and discovery at an epoch passionate about polar exploration, ocean voyages and the conquest of space.
Launched in 1965 and made in 1714 examples only, the Memovox Polaris was not only a milestone in the history of diving watches but also for Jaeger-LeCoultre. The revolutionary mechanical alarm system consists of a patented triple case back to optimise the transmission of sound under the water. The outermost is pierced with 16 holes and enables the sound to be heard easily under water. The inner case back is the waterproof seal. The three oversized crowns allowing easy time and alarm setting even under water are of particular design, showing a cross hatch pattern.
The imposing volume and perfect lines of the Memovox Polaris inspired both Master Compressor and AMVOX models. To celebrate the model, a limited edition named "Tribute to Polaris" was launched in 2009.
Made in 1963, the present Polaris is one of the very first prototypes of this iconic timepiece made, still featuring a solid case back which was exchanged against the pierced version of later series, designed to render the alarm sound more distinct under water. Furthermore believed to be the very first Memovox Polaris prototype to be offered at auction, its rarity is enhanced by its superb, near mint original overall condition and the presence of the original, extendable "Tropic" bracelet. Also called "Marine", it remained in production until the 1970s. Consigned by the original owner, this Memovox Polaris prototype is a treasure for the aficionado of rare and unusual timepieces.
In 1950, Jaeger-LeCoultre released the Memovox, or the "voice of memory", name derived from the Latin words "memories", memory, and "vox", voice. In 1956, a Memovox featuring the Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre 815 became the first self-winding alarm watch in history.
One of the Jaeger-LeCoultre's most collectible timepieces, the Memovox Polaris is part of the firm's line of divers watches developed between 1959 and 1970, its name evoking the spirit of adventure and discovery at an epoch passionate about polar exploration, ocean voyages and the conquest of space.
Launched in 1965 and made in 1714 examples only, the Memovox Polaris was not only a milestone in the history of diving watches but also for Jaeger-LeCoultre. The revolutionary mechanical alarm system consists of a patented triple case back to optimise the transmission of sound under the water. The outermost is pierced with 16 holes and enables the sound to be heard easily under water. The inner case back is the waterproof seal. The three oversized crowns allowing easy time and alarm setting even under water are of particular design, showing a cross hatch pattern.
The imposing volume and perfect lines of the Memovox Polaris inspired both Master Compressor and AMVOX models. To celebrate the model, a limited edition named "Tribute to Polaris" was launched in 2009.