A New Memovox from the Master Control Collection | JAEGER-LECOULTRE
WATCH & JEWELRY / WATCH NEWS
September 22, 2020

A New Memovox from the Master Control Collection | JAEGER-LECOULTRE

JAEGER-LECOULTRE

A New Memovox, Reimagined with Modern Functionality, Honoring a 1950s Timepiece with Chime Complications

Jaeger-LeCoultre has unveiled two new timepieces, the "Master Control Memovox" and "Master Control Memovox Timer," as an homage to the natural sounds of the Vallée de Joux, the home of the Maison, and to chiming timepieces.

Text by OZAKI Sayaka | Edit by TSUCHIDA Takashi

A Modern Reinterpretation Honoring the Original's Charm

With profound respect for watchmaking tradition and a relentless pursuit of innovation, Jaeger-LeCoultre has reinterpreted the Memovox, a complication featuring minute repeaters and alarm mechanisms that have played a part in its long history, releasing the new "Master Control Memovox" and "Master Control Memovox Timer."
Despite being one of the most practical and appealing complications, the alarm remains a surprisingly rare mechanism in the world of watchmaking. Seventy years after Jaeger-LeCoultre introduced its first Memovox, the Memovox has become the benchmark for wristwatch alarms, with models designed for urban lifestyles and aquatic sports also emerging.
The history of the Memovox can be traced back to the late 1940s. In the post-war era, as economies recovered and the world buzzed with energy, new inventions emerged, driving further industrial innovation and urban development. Businessmen, busy and on the move, were optimistic and confident.
Reflecting this societal mood, Jaeger-LeCoultre developed an alarm watch, leveraging its exceptional craftsmanship in chiming mechanisms. This practical timepiece perfectly matched the era.
The "Master Control Memovox" is a reinterpretation of the 1950s Memovox, featuring a streamlined dial with a modern aesthetic. The classic combination of alarm and date display, paired with a sunray-finished silver dial, creates a sophisticated impression. The applied indices are further refined, with the slender triangular indices characteristic of mid-1950s Memovox models harmonizing with the Dauphine hands. A blue seconds hand adds a subtle pop of color, accenting the silver-white dial.
The "Master Control Memovox Timer" incorporates a new timer function, the result of decades of alarm development by Jaeger-LeCoultre's engineers, alongside features such as world time display and parking meter reminders. This allows the alarm to be set based on the duration of time elapsed, such as meeting or sleep duration, while also enabling the traditional alarm setting for a specific time, like a wake-up call.
The display allows for either alarm setting method to be chosen, with the other display automatically moving to the corresponding position. The dial consists of two concentric blue rings with a sunray finish, featuring polished numerals in shallow relief on the inner ring. This "Master Control Memovox Timer" is a rare limited edition of 250 pieces.
Both Memovox models feature the new 40mm Master Control case. The sloped bezel, dynamically curved lugs, and the combination of polished and satin finishes exude modern elegance.
Master Control Memovox
  • Ref. | Q4118420
  • Movement | Automatic (Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 956)
  • Power Reserve | 45 hours
  • Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date, alarm (Memovox function)
  • Case Material | Stainless steel (satin and polished finish)
  • Case Diameter | 40mm
  • Strap Material | Leather
  • Water Resistance | 5 bar
  • Price | ¥1,372,800 (incl. tax)
Master Control Memovox Timer
  • Ref. | Q410848J
  • Movement | Automatic (Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 956)
  • Power Reserve | 45 hours
  • Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date, alarm (Memovox function), timer display (hand with JL logo)
  • Case Material | Stainless steel (satin and polished finish)
  • Case Diameter | 40mm
  • Strap Material | Alligator leather
  • Water Resistance | 5 bar
  • Quantity | Limited to 250 pieces worldwide
  • Price | ¥1,848,000 (incl. tax)
Inquiries

Jaeger-LeCoultre
Tel. 0120-79-1833
http://www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

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