Vintage Steel Stunner, The 1940's Jaeger LeCoultre reference E 159 Time Only
The 1940s was a time period full of innovation. The development or radar, ballistic missiles, jet aircrafts, and the first test of technology for an atomic weapon as part of the Manhattan Project were all parts of what came out of World War II during this decade. But if one looks away from war time inventions, things like the development of commercial television, the microwave oven, tupperware, hydraulic fracturing, and even the slinky were great steps forward for mankind.
Now likening these incredible inventions with that of a watch might feel like a stretch, but technology was still advancing in watches, and huge leaps were made during this time. One brand that has always been on the cutting edge of watch technology is Jaeger LeCoultre, the famous Swiss watch manufacture based on Le Sentier, Vaud, Switzerland. The company was founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre and since 2000, has been owned by Richemont.
This watch today is an exceptional example of what made the brand so significant. This watch is the E 159, and is a great example of a no-nonsense, steel time keeping device. Blomman Watch Report did a great article on this reference in 2020, which I encourage you to read. The E 159 was originally launched by the brand in the 1940s, likely in 1945 based on historical catalogue’s and the introduction of the caliber P 478 in 1943, which is the movement in the watch.
Credit: Blomman watch report. 1945 Jaeger LeCoultre catalogue with E 159
This version of the E 159 dates to the 1940’s, based on the serial numbers of the case and movement. The watch has a 33mm stainless steel case that is in overall good condition, with signs of wear. The lugs are long, sharp, with signs of wear but in good condition. The catalogue gives one a great example of the sharpness of the steel case in the 40s, in comparison to a E 159 (this watch) which has lived now on the wrists of watch enthusiasts for over 80 years.
There are several different versions of the E 159 that were produced, as was the practice for watch brands of this time period. The dials come in many different versions; this version has a lovely white dial, that has aged nicely overtime with darker spots throughout. At 7 o’clock, There is a larger dark area between 7 and 8 o’clock. The watch has large hour Arabic numerals, with applied luminous material. The numerals appear to have been relumed at some point in the watches history, which can be seen clearly with a loupe.
The watch has very attractive sword hands where the lume has fallen out, giving it a unique look. This is of course not to everyone’s taste, due to the fact that many people want watches to be as original as possible. But for those who like a watch with some personality beyond the original specifications, the hands are a wonderful example. Lastly, the crown is unsigned, as with all E 159 references.
One of the defining features of the watch is its movement. The reference runs on the caliber P478 manual wind movement. As mentioned previously, the caliber 478 was launched in 1943 and was used in various Jaeger LeCoultre watches of the era. The movement is about 12.75 lignes, which fit the smaller watches of the era nicely. The movement has 40 hours of power reserve and runs as 18,000 vibrations per hour (vph).
This caliber is the P 478, in which the “P” references the shock protection of the balance wheel. This of course was extremely important during this time period because the accuracy of ones watch was extremely important without the ease of centralized time, like we have on our phones today. The movement is also very beautifully decorated with beautiful Côtes de Genève finishing on the movement and angled polishing on the components of the movement.
Where this watch will be enjoyed is truly in every occasion. Being a steel case, the watch becomes extremely versatile. The case metal allows the watch to be worn in many different environments and the simplicity of the dial layout and complications keeps the watch neutral. There are not high complications that could make it too dressy for a casual everyday watch, but it also means it could be dressed up for drinks out with friends, or a nice dinner at your favourite restaurant. Straps also can play a nice role in adapting the watch to other environments, as it does have lug holes which make it easy to switch out straps.
It is hard not to stumble on Jaeger LeCoultre if one loves vintage watches. They have an incredible history of watchmaking, produced a wide range of watches, and created exceptional examples of watches that are easy to enjoy on the wrist.
Enjoy!
