Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Monaco, Dec 12, 2025

LOT 94

JAEGER LECOULTRE, SWITZERLAND, REF. E859, MEMOVOX POLARIS STAINLESS STEEL

EUR 14,000 - 18,000

CHF 13,100 - 16,800 / HKD 128,000 - 164,000 / USD 16,300 - 20,900 / JPY 2,540,000 - 3,260,000

A fine and rare stainless steel self-winding alarm diver's wristwatch with black dial, revolving bezel. date and central second


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good

Case: 2-8

Very good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 2 *
Dial: 2-01

Very good

HANDS Original

Brand Jaeger Lecoultre, Switzerland

Model Memovox Polaris Stainless steel

Reference E859

Year 1968

Bracelet Leather

Diameter 42 mm

Caliber 825

Signature Dial, case and movement

Notes

Introduced in 1968 as one of the most technologically advanced diving watches of its era, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris has since become one of the most legendary and coveted vintage tool watches ever created. Produced in notably limited quantities, it was engineered for underwater exploration with innovative features such as the internal rotating timing bezel and patented triple-layer alarm case design, enabling unparalleled acoustic performance beneath the surface.

This example proudly retains the hallmark configuration of the three original crowns: one to wind and set the movement, one to control the alarm mechanism, and one to operate the internal dive bezel, all beautifully preserved and still delivering the unmistakable tactile feel that collectors search for in true Polaris survivors.

The dial displays the charismatic traits of the late-1960s execution: bold luminous trapezoid markers, Arabic numerals at 12, 6, and 9, and a central alarm disc subtly texturing the overall composition. The luminous material has matured to a pleasing vintage tone, consistent with the “T SWISS MADE T” designation at 6 o’clock. The internal bezel remains crisp, and the hands match in character and age.

The stainless steel case presents honest wear, its proportions intact, capturing the utilitarian beauty and purpose-built nature of the reference. Paired with a leather strap, the watch retains a stylish presence while preserving its essential dive-instrument spirit. Believed to be from the highly sought-after 1968 production year, it represents one of the earliest and purest forms of the Polaris design.

A cornerstone of Jaeger-LeCoultre history and a foundational piece in the evolution of mechanical diving instruments, the Polaris 1968 has ascended to the highest ranks of vintage watch collecting. Rarity, technical ingenuity, and unmistakable mid-century character converge in this remarkable example, a prize for the discerning collector of tool-watch legends.

Provenance

Beaune collection