Mechanical alarm watches still have a loyal following, and the Memovox is synonymous with them. This watch, which has become even more practical with the adoption of the renowned Cal. 956 movement, has become even more appealing in 2020. The important thing isn't that the movement can now be seen through the case back.
Photographs by Takeshi Hoshi (estrellas), Text by Masayuki Hirota (Chronos-Japan)
[First published in the November 2020 issue of Kronos Japan]
Master Control Memovox
Equipped with the new Cal. 956 movement, which moves the gongs to the outer periphery of the movement. The case is 1.61mm thinner than the previous model. The price is just within the acceptable range. Automatic winding. 24 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 45 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 40mm, thickness 12.39mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. 168 million yen.
The unexpected surprise of 2020 is the new Master Control. Although the diameter has increased, the movement has evolved into an improved version of the 899 series, and details such as the window frame have been refined. The best of these is the newly added Memovox.
This model is equipped with the new Caliber 956. The original 956 was the best alarm movement available, except for its short power reserve. Jaeger-LeCoultre has taken the alarm, whose basic design dates back to the 1960s, and evolved it into something completely different by adding a shock-resistant free-sprung balance, a fast date advance, and improved winding efficiency. The addition of a guard to the balance cock to prevent the hairspring from deforming also makes it suitable for use in sports watches.
Master Control Memovox Timer
This limited edition watch features a countdown timer. The JL logo indicates the timer. Of course, the regular alarm can also be used. Automatic winding. 24 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 45 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 40mm, thickness 12.39mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. Limited to 250 pieces worldwide. Price: 1,248,000 yen.
In order to create a see-through case back, the 2020 version of the 956 has moved the gongs that were previously attached to the back of the case to the outer periphery of the movement. As a result, the case is thinner. The gongs are also larger, which gives the impression of further improving the sound quality. What impressed me was the shape of the gongs. Unlike those of a repeater, they are completely closed, making it less likely for the gongs to hit the case when the watch is shaken.
The limited edition Memovox Timer adds a countdown alarm to the Memovox. In addition to the usual alarm settings, you can now set the alarm to go off 10 hours later.
In my opinion, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox remains the pinnacle of practical alarm watches. While its short power reserve is a bit of a concern, it's easy to operate, its mechanism is mature, and its sound quality is excellent. And, unlike smartwatches, you don't have to worry about running out of battery.
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