Introduction
Few watches are as closely associated with Jaeger-LeCoultre as the Memovox. First introduced in the early 1950s, its name translates from Latin as “voice of memory”, referring to the mechanical alarm complication that became one of the manufacture’s signatures. The ref. E855 represents one of the archetypal automatic Memovox designs of the 1960s, combining the alarm and date complications with an unusually substantial case approaching 38mm – dimensions that have made these larger examples particularly desirable among collectors.
Far less commonly encountered is the present configuration, which combines the large E855 case with Jaeger-LeCoultre’s distinctive “Parking” alarm dial. Designed as a mechanical reminder of when a parking meter was due to expire, its rotating central disc allows the wearer to set an elapsed parking period before receiving the Memovox’s unmistakable audible alarm. It is a wonderfully specific piece of mid-century functionality, pairing the proportions and automatic bumper movement of the sought-after E855 with one of the most unusual dial configurations found within the wider Memovox family.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Jaeger LeCoultre
Dimensions
38mm
Model
Memovox Parking
Movement
Automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre calibre K825
Reference
E855
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1960s
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
What distinguishes this E855 is its unusual Parking alarm dial. The independently rotating central disc is calibrated to allow a parking interval to be set, with the mechanical alarm providing an audible reminder when the allotted time has elapsed. It transforms the Memovox’s signature complication into a remarkably specific everyday tool while retaining the clean visual language of the classic E855.
THE CONSTRUCTION
At approximately 38mm, the E855 is substantially larger than many contemporary Memovox references and has become particularly sought after for its modern wrist presence. Its stainless steel case retains the characteristic twin-crown arrangement of the Memovox, while the larger proportions provide an especially compelling platform for the rare Parking dial.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows scratches and small nicks, as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back has some small nicks and well-defined engravings. The original Jaeger-LeCoultre crowns are present and show light scratches. The outer dial section has some surface marks and discoloured luminous material. The inner disc retains well-preserved “P” and text, with some surface spotting. It is fitted with a brown leather strap and steel pin buckle.
Please note: The watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.
Our Perspective
The standard E855 is already one of the most appealing vintage Memovox references thanks to its large proportions and characterful bumper automatic movement. Adding the rare Parking dial makes this example considerably more unusual. There is also something wonderfully evocative about such sophisticated mechanical watchmaking being devoted to the mundane problem of an expiring parking meter – exactly the sort of purposeful eccentricity that makes vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre so compelling.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
