Introduction
Produced during the 1960s, the LeCoultre ref. E335 is a superb example of the elegant chronographs that defined the golden age of Swiss watchmaking. Sold under the LeCoultre name in the American market before the company universally adopted the Jaeger-LeCoultre branding, these chronographs combine understated styling with exceptional mechanical quality. While the manufacture is celebrated today for icons such as the Reverso and Memovox, its vintage chronographs remain among the most refined, and arguably underrated, offerings of the period.
At the heart of the E335 beats the legendary Valjoux 72, one of the finest manually wound chronograph movements ever produced. This column-wheel calibre powered some of the twentieth century's most celebrated chronographs, including early Rolex Daytonas, Heuer Carreras and Universal Genève Compaxes, earning a reputation for both precision and durability. Paired with a beautifully balanced 35.5mm case and an effortlessly elegant three-register dial, the E335 represents everything collectors admire about mid-century chronograph design.
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Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and blank papers
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
LeCoultre
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Classic Chronograph
Movement
Manual-wind Valjoux 72
Reference
E335
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1960s
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Box and papers
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
The crisp white dial features a classic tri-compax layout with contrasting blue and black scales, applied Arabic numerals and elegant sword hands. Its balanced proportions and restrained styling create one of the most timeless chronograph displays of the era.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The polished stainless steel case is distinguished by its elegant downturned lugs and slim bezel, allowing the dial to take centre stage. At 35.5mm, it offers the refined proportions that define the finest mid-century chronographs.
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 light nicks. The case back retains well-defined engravings. The pushers and winding crown are excellent. The dial has aged to a light cream hue and shows light surface marks in places. The blued subdial hands show some oxidation, while the minute hand has some lume missing. It is fitted with a green rally-style leather strap and a LeCoultre steel pin buckle. Comes with the original box, blank warranty booklet and instruction booklet.
Our Perspective
Vintage chronographs powered by the Valjoux 72 continue to attract collectors, but few offer the same combination of elegance, pedigree and value as the LeCoultre E335. With its beautifully restrained design, exceptional movement and direct connection to one of Switzerland's greatest manufactures, it is a chronograph that deserves far greater recognition among discerning collectors.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
