Introduction
Produced during the early 1970s, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Speed Beat GT ref. E873 represents one of the most distinctive evolutions of the brand’s celebrated alarm watch lineage. Building upon the success of the Memovox collection introduced in the 1950s, the “Speed Beat” models incorporated high-frequency automatic movements designed to improve precision while maintaining the practical alarm complication that had become a signature of the line. Powered by the in-house cal. 825 movement, the ref. E873 combined technical sophistication with the bold integrated styling and sporty aesthetics that defined the era. Produced in highly limited numbers, with approximately 1,100 examples believed to have been made, the Speed Beat GT has become one of the more elusive and collectible vintage Memovox references among enthusiasts of 1970s sports watches and Jaeger-LeCoultre’s innovative mechanical history.
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Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$3,000 – $4,000
The Details
Brand
Jaeger LeCoultre
Dimensions
39mm
Model
Memovox Speed Beat GT
Movement
Automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre cal. 825
Reference
E873
Bracelet
Two-tone stainless steel expandable NSA bracelet
Year
1972
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Blue-grey
THE DIAL
The dial features the classic dual-crown Memovox layout, with the rotating inner alarm disc positioned centrally beneath applied hour markers and bold hands designed for excellent legibility. The sporty styling and restrained color palette reflect the transitional design language of the early 1970s, balancing technical functionality with a distinctly modern aesthetic.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Measuring 39mm in diameter, the case offers strong wrist presence while maintaining balanced proportions. The watch is paired with a period-correct two-tone expandable NSA bracelet, further reinforcing its authentic period character.
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 surface scratches and small nicks as expected of a watch of this vintage, while the case back retains excellent engravings and central medallion with some surface scratches. Both Jaeger-LeCoultre–signed crowns remain present and in excellent condition. The dial remains excellent with some light surface marks, while the hands show scratches and discoloration to the lume. It is fitted with a rolled-link bracelet showing marks to the blue finish on the centre links and light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 28 links and fits approximately an 8” wrist.
Our Perspective
Sporty and chic at the same time, this line of GT “Speed Beats” was right in style in 1972 when this reference was designed. According to The Collectables book by Jaeger LeCoultre, only 1,100 of this reference were made in stainless steel.
Patrick Parrish
Collector
