The Master Memovox – the Grande Maison’s iconic alarm watch – is celebrating the 60th anniversary of its automatic movement this year. To mark the occasion, Jaeger-LeCoultre has unveiled a very contemporary interpretation of an enduring 1970s design – the Master Memovox Boutique Edition. When Jaeger‑LeCoultre’s designers set out to create this special anniversary edition of the automatic Memovox, they sought inspiration in a watch dating back to the 1970s, the Memovox Snowdrop.
This rare model with its tranquil greyish-blue dial has lost none of its allure. Blue is quite emblematic of the Memovox collection and has always been a very popular colour for this watch throughout its history.
The dial has kept all the characteristics of the Memovox Snowdrop. Baton hands with a luminescent coating move around a white “railtrack” minute circle, which delineates the outer rim of the sunray-finish blue inner disc. Here is ensconced the little triangle that acts as a hallmark of the alarm function, and also glows in the dark. Moving across an opaline blue surface, the triple-faceted hour-markers are also coated in luminescent material and overlaid by a grey-blue “railtrack” minute circle – just like the original watch. As a crowning touch, the twelfth hour-marker is replaced with a Jaeger‑LeCoultre logo. This watch constitutes a fine homage to its ancestor, giving a modern “retro-style” look and feel.
As for the stainless steel case, its contemporary design with brushed finishes gives the wrist an unquestionable elegance. Turning it over to see its reverse side, one lights upon an entirely engraved case-back, marked as belonging to a limited edition of 500 pieces. The “1000 Hours Control” symbol in the centre certifies that the watch has successfully undergone 1000 hours of rigorous tests relating to its functioning and reliability.
The Jaeger‑LeCoultre Calibre 956 that drives the Master Memovox Boutique Edition is direct descendent of the original – first automatic movement that boast an alarm function signed by the Grande Maison and which inspired many others since its introduction in 1956.
The material selected for the strap is a deep blue braided cotton known as “Trieste”, with a contemporary light blue stitching. Supple calfskin lining ensures a comfortable and flexible fit.
This exclusive edition will be available in Jaeger‑LeCoultre Boutiques around the world starting in November, priced at $11,700.