LeCoultre Memovox Bumper-Wind Automatic

The first popular mechanical alarm wristwatch was the Vulcain Cricket. It gained many accolades upon its debut in 1947, making its way onto the wrists of numerous notable individuals — including several U.S. Presidents.  

In the late 1940s, Jaeger-LeCoultre began producing its own mechanical alarm watch to compete with the popular Cricket.  Utilizing a unique twin-crown system and a unique alarm mechanism — the Memovox employs a hammer that strikes against a post welded to the caseback, whereas the Cricket uses a resonant, dual-case back design — JLC set itself apart and in so doing, created one of the most iconic models of post-War watchmaking. 

LeCoultre's earliest Memovox expressions were largely available in Europe, while American-market models —  cased in steel, two-tone, or in 14K gold in an array of dial configurations — were offered as early as 1951. This particular example dates to the 1950s and bears the hallmarks of a U.S. model, the most distinct of which is the use of a “LeCoultre” signature rather than “Jaeger-LeCoultre” branding on the dial. (Another sign, located inside the snapback case, is a stamp reading “Cased and Timed in the United States.”)  

Housed in a 37mm 10K gold-filled, two-tone stainless steel case with dual winding crowns, an acrylic crystal, and a smooth bezel, it features a luminous, two-piece silver-tone dial with an inner, rotating alarm-setting disc. Applied ‘dart’ and ‘Arabic’ quadrant indices are joined by luminous ‘dauphine’ hands, while the self-winding Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 815 bumper movement provides power. 

The dial and luminous elements are in absolutely stunning condition on this particular example, suggesting it likely spent some time visiting home in Le Sentier in recent years - as it shows signs of a professional dial restoration, or perhaps an old-stock replacement, likely by the manufacture. This is the spa treatment we all deserve when we're pushing 70!

With its handsome dial and delightful alarm sound, this piece is sure to make you smile every time you strap it on your wrist!

Few watchmaking concerns are as storied as Jaeger-LeCoultre. Though the maison is not technically a member of the “Holy Trinity” of Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin, one could easily make the argument that it should be: After all, it was JLC that supplied movements to Patek from the beginning of the 20th century through the early 30s.

Founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoutlre in Le Sentier, Switzerland, the firm became the Jaeger-LeCoultre we know today when it merged with Parisian watchmaker Edmond Jaeger’s business in 1937. The two horological concerns collaborated on numerous projects before cementing their partnership, the most important of which was no doubt the Reverso. A sport watch with a reversible case, this ingenious timepiece was designed to offer protection to the watch dial — when engaged in sport or otherwise dangerous activity, the wearer would simply flip the case over, exposing its back to the world, rather than the vulnerable crystal.

But the Reverso is far from the only significant timepiece brought to market by JLC: The firm also produced the world’s thinnest pocket watch in 1907, powered by the Caliber 145. In 1929, the maison released the Caliber 101, still today the smallest mechanical movement. (Queen Elizabeth II wore a Caliber 101-equipped wristwatch to her coronation in 1953.) And perhaps no other watchmaker is world-renowned for their production of a clock in the way that JLC is famous for the Atmos. Invented by Jean-Léon Reutter, it’s powered by miniscule changes in atmospheric pressure — Edmon Jaeger acquired the patent and licensed it beginning in 1936. The Atmos is still produced in numerous forms today, and remains the Swiss government’s foremost diplomatic gift.

From classic, near-centuries old designs like the Reverso and the Atmos to modern über-complications such as the brilliant Master Gyrotourbillon, Jaeger-LeCoultre remains on the cutting edge of horological technology nearly two centuries after its founding.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.