Introduction
Produced during the early 1970s, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris II ref. E870 represents one of the most distinctive and unconventional sports watches of its era. Building upon the legacy of the original Polaris diving alarm watches of the 1960s, the Polaris II embraced the bold integrated styling and oversized proportions that came to define luxury sports watches during the decade. Powered by the automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre cal. 916 movement, the model combined technical sophistication with an unmistakably futuristic aesthetic, featuring an asymmetrical cushion-shaped case and brightly colored internal rotating bezel system. Produced in very limited numbers, with approximately 1,120 examples made across three dial variations according to The Collectables book by Jaeger-LeCoultre, the Polaris II has become one of the rarest and most collectible vintage sports watches from the brand.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$5,000 – $8,000
The Details
Brand
LeCoultre
Dimensions
43.5mm
Model
Polaris II
Movement
Automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre cal. 916
Reference
E870
Bracelet
Original J.B. Champion “brick” bracelet
Year
1970
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Blue-grey
THE DIAL
The dial features the highly distinctive dual-crown Polaris layout with an internal rotating bezel and bold luminous detailing designed for strong underwater legibility. The combination of contrasting colors, oversized markers, and functional diving scales gives the watch an unmistakably adventurous and highly period-correct sporting appearance.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The oversized 44mm stainless steel case showcases the dramatic asymmetrical styling that defines the Polaris II. Its broad angular surfaces, integrated profile, and acrylic bezel perfectly capture the experimental design language embraced by Jaeger-LeCoultre during the early 1970s.
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, particularly to the dodecagonal inner mid-case, while the case back retains legible engravings. The bezel ring is excellent, while the blue insert shows marks between twelve and twenty. The dial is excellent, while the minute hand shows some surface scratches. The lume on the dial has been cleaned off at some point and there is only a small remnant visible on some of the indexes. It is fitted with a J.B. Champion “brick” bracelet showing surface marks and moderate play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 21 links, 1 of which is removable, and fits approximately a 7¾” wrist.
Please note: The watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.
Our Perspective
Rare, bold, and unmistakably futuristic, the Polaris II stands among the most visually dramatic and collectible sports watches ever produced by Jaeger-LeCoultre during the adventurous design era of the 1970s.
Patrick Parrish
Collector
