108th Auction

2023/5/20

Lot 372

Jaeger-LeCoultre
Memovox Automatic

A large vintage wristwatch with alarm

Sold

estimated
1.2002.500 €
Price realized
1.900 €
specific features
Case
Steel, screw back, later JLC deployant clasp.
Dial
Anthracite brown, cognac-coloured centre.
Movement
Automatic.
Case no.1307682
Ref.E872
Cal.916
Diam.39 x 45 mm
Circa1970
Ctry.Switzerland


Calibre 916 was introduced in 1969 and 7731 watches were produced until 1978. It is the first Jaeger-LeCoultre alarm calibre to use a high-speed 28,800 A/h balance, giving improved precision and it is the first ever automatic alarm watch with a free-rotating rotor, as opposed to the bumper movements produced previously. The alarm hammer strikes a protuberance on the back plate, making a distinctive buzzing sound.
The steel case is in good condition, the pushers are original. The rectangular alarm dial in the centre is beautifully aged and has changed colour over time from dark brown to cognac, giving the watch a new aesthetic.