Right off the bat, I want to say that Jaeger-LeCoultre makes the best reissues hands down and was one of the first brands that started today’s trend of drawing upon vintage pieces to create a modern incarnation. Spanning from the iconic Reversos to robust models like the Polaris, Jaeger-LeCoultre has embraced a diverse array of reissued watches. Nevertheless, this Memovox Tribute to Deep Sea, introduced in 2011, is widely revered among enthusiasts as one of their most exceptional creations.
Originally introduced in 1959 as the Jaeger-LeCoultre Deep Sea Alarm, this watch stood alongside other legendary dive watches of its time such as the Rolex Submariner, Omega Seamaster 300, and Blancpain Fifty Fathoms. It distinguished itself as the first dive watch equipped with an alarm function. Notably, instead of a traditional rotating bezel for tracking dive time and ascent, Jaeger-LeCoultre utilized an inner rotating dial that activated an alarm within the watch to signal the end of a dive. The watch featured a distinctive case design with dual crowns: one positioned at two o’clock for winding and setting the alarm, and another at four o’clock for adjusting the time.
Fast forward to the present day, and what we have before us today is the stunning reissue of the legendary dive watch. What captivated collectors most was Jaeger-LeCoultre's meticulous attention to detail in faithfully resurrecting the Deep Sea Alarm. Beginning with the 40.5mm stainless steel case, it's only 1mm larger than the original (which was 39.8mm), fitting impeccably and proportionally on the wrist. Completing the look, the case features beveled edges, brushed sides, and polished surfaces on the lug tops, completing its elegant aesthetic.
The black dial showcases a matte finish that closely mirrors the original, down to the LeCoultre branding and the luminous syringe hands. Additionally, it features a matte anodized aluminium bezel adorned with luminous triangles at the 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions.
Rather than opting for a modern sapphire crystal, Jaeger-LeCoultre chose to use plexiglass to achieve a domed crystal. While this decision might appear minor, the domed shape significantly enhances the vintage appeal—a detail which I think most connoisseurs will certainly appreciate. On the wrist, it's quite challenging to distinguish between the reissue and the original, thanks to this thoughtful little detail.
All this is impressive enough, but Jaeger-LeCoultre took it a step further by making it a strictly limited piece. They introduced two versions: an American variant (inspired by the ‘LeCoultre Spécial Amérique 1959’) and a European variant (inspired by the ‘Jaeger-LeCoultre Classique 1959’)—the latter being the one presented here—with each showcasing a slightly different dial layout. The American edition was limited to 359 pieces, while the European edition, like the one shown and offered here, was limited to 959 pieces. The last two digits of each edition pay homage to the birth year of this legendary reference.
Powering the watch from within is Jaeger-LeCoultre's in-house, self-winding Cal. 956, the same movement utilized in all their Memovox alarm watches. It boasts a power reserve of 45 hours when fully wound. Combining modern functionality with tasteful design restraint, the Memovox Tribute to Deep Sea stands as a formidable contender among the finest vintage reissues ever crafted, without question.
