‘Vintage LeCoultre Memovox Reference 2404 (Circa 1960s)’

By Charlie Dunne

Alarm watches were very much the complication to have in the 1950s and 1960s. They were the practical complication that “reminds, warns, or awakens” one throughout their busy lives. To this day, they remain one of the most undervalued complication.

While looking to find an advertisement of the present Memovox, I came across a particular one from the early 1960s via http://www.hifi-archiv.info/. The platform is a treasure trove for all types of advertisements, particularly watches and clocks. Although the model would feature seemingly the same Art Deco applied numerals for 6, 9 and 12, the case was evidently different. Also, the model featured within the ad would use an automatic calibre with a date aperture.

As if by fate I would receive a direct message of an Instagram story posted by Nick Gould. Gould is widely recognized as the undisputed watch spotting champion across all decades and genres. In addition, he is a writer for various outlets including Quill & Pad, Monochrome Watches and Time + Tide. I was thrilled to see the exact reference within the advertisement and quickly called in a favor for the link (which he generously sent my way).

After a small amount of research, the model was identified as the reference 2404 and was powered by the calibre K814 manual wind alarm movement. This calibre was purportedly produced from the early 1950s until the mid 1960s. Dial variations appear to include non-luminous radial Deco numerals (1-12 with non-luminous baton hands). Also, there are both luminous and non-luminous 3,6,9,12 configurations with dauphine hands and baton hands. Models with luminous hands should correspond with both open interior minute track (such as the present one) or a closed track, both of which feature lumed demarcations at each hour. Models with baton hands should not feature any lume.

Within the advertisement, it is worn on a JB Champion (signed Jaeger-LeCoultre). Coincidentally, this style can not only be seen on dress Memovox Marine Alarm, but also the more sport oriented models like the Deep Sea Alarm ref E857. The bracelets were made by two makers: The deployant buckle versions by the celebrated Gay Frères and the flex bracelet versions made by the American company JB Champion.

While common consensus is that the Gay Frères is was the preeminent bracelet maker, one could argue that JB Champion achieved this reputation within the States. Their bracelets can be found for a wide range of prices, some of which are quite inviting price points. While typically I don’t find the flex bracelets to be my favorite style, the quality of this example is quite impressive. It has a very stiff and durable feel, as if it was not worn frequently throughout its time. The combination of angular links with beads of rice also give a very spirited look on the wrist. The flexible links begin on the interior of the wrist, allowing even those with hairy forearms to not undergo painful wear and tear.

It’s worth emphasizing that within the American market, the name “Memovox” was not necessarily synonymous with the model. By comparison, “LeCoultre Alarm” far outweighed the term “Memovox” within American newspaper ads. Until the late 60s, “Memovox” quite rarely would be seen within adverts. Perhaps it was a matter of the portmanteau of “memory” and “voice” (vox) not resonating with the American consumer. Or it could have also been an attempt by LeCoultre to associate the wristwatch alarm complication with their brand, as the Vulcain Cricket had become one of the most popular watches during the 1950s-1960s.