Jaeger-LeCoultre has been one of the leading watch manufacturers and more impressively watch movement manufacturers since the early 1900s, though their dignified roots date all the way back to 1844. Jaeger-LeCoultre or "JLC" for short, produced some of the most important movements for other manufacturers including Patek Philippe, Cartier, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin. JLC created a multitude of its own extraordinary watches throughout the company's tenure as one of the leading Swiss watchmaking houses.

The Memovox is one of Jaeger-LeCoultre's most iconic and well-performing line of watches, and though the Memovox wasn't the first alarm watch created, JLC innovated the wristwatch alarm function with their dual case back design which greatly increased sound resonance. With the success of the classic Memovox design and the increased demand for utility-driven timepieces, JLC realized there was room for even more innovation. 1959 Jaeger-LeCoultre unveiled the Deep Sea Alarm ref. E857, the world's first dive-rated timepiece with an alarm function. This unique timekeeping creation was only in production for two years with an estimated 950 pieces made with two distinct dial variations, one for the US market, and one for the European market, either of which is highly desired by vintage collectors.

The Memovox 'Tribute to Deep Sea' is a faithful, yet tastefully updated recreation of the original design limited to 359 Pieces in the US edition, like the example presented here, and 959 for the European edition. The 'Tribute to Deep Sea' is fitted with the robust automatic caliber 956 movement, which features a 48-hour power reserve and an alarm function that is loud enough to be heard underwater. 

CASE & BRACELET

The excellent case appears to remain unpolished with crisp factory brushing present on the case sides and gentle signs of use present throughout. The bezel insert exhibits no visible signs of use and features lumed triangle markers at 12, 3, 6, & 9 o'clock. The original acrylic crystal exhibits some gentle signs of use. The crown located at 2 o'clock winds and sets the alarm function, while the crown located at 4 o'clock functions the setting of the time. The case back exhibits minimal wear with the factory engravings remaining in excellent condition. The watch comes on its original Jaeger-LeCoultre woven rubber tropic black strap with the original unsigned stainless steel tang buckle.

DIAL & HANDS

The matte black and silver "USA Edition" dial is flawless. The hands are flawless.

ACCESSORIES 

The watch comes as a complete set with its original inner and outer boxes, the Certificate of Guarantee, booklets, and hang tag.