I'm interested in finding an alarm wristwatch. The brand in the ebay ad below is of a brand that I notice quite a bit in this category. I've never heard of the brand, and wonder if anyone can clue me in on the things to look for, or any reference material, so I can ask relevant questions or have a basis for evaluating.

thanks, Jessica

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=31387&item=4980135394&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

Jessica, Enclosed is a pic of my LeCoultre Wrist Alarm--just to give you a look at another brand. Mine was one of my "scores". About three years ago, I found it at a local antique store in a junk box marked "anything in this box for a dime". It was in the bottom all covered with dirt. It is in excellent running order. All it needed was a new crystal and a new strap. Had both in my stock. Grand total investment--10 cents.

Jessica,
Here's a picture of a very nice 2 Tone LeCoultre Memovox alarm that I own.
This one has the high beat movement and dates from the mid 70's.

NOTE:- The Vulcain Cricket is one of the most famous and highly sought alarm watches. They are very collectible and reasonably priced, approx. $200.00/$300.00 for a fairly nice one. Normally they go a lot lower than the LeCoultre Memovox or Wrist Alarms which are going out of sight. I saw one a similar to mine (mine's in better condition) which was up for sale a few weeks ago and it went for over $900.00

I like the crikets. I have had a number over the years and they seem to be one of the more reliable alarm watches. I also like the LeCoultre however parts for them are getting verry, verry hard to find.

I've noticed that $200-300 price range for the crickets. Very nice watches, and reasonable, especially considering the alarm.

The LeCoultre you got, Tom, must be one of the deals of the decade, if you think in terms of percentages. (Of course, starting at 10cents is an advantage there--but still.) Very nice.

Do the Vulcains have different movements? and if so, were they made by the company, or by an ebauche maker? I notice that someone is starting it up again, modestly (from some points of view).

The history of wristwatches seems harder to come by. I'll have to partake more of this interesting section.

Jessica

I love that curvy alarm hand--altogether a very tough watch. Poljots turn up frequently on ebay, and look rather tempting. Good to know you have one Lindell--so I might go ahead.

Just for the moment, while I contemplate the scene. The vulcains also have great appeal--although crickets, while very persistent and somewhat strident, have this white-noise-like sound--not alarming (not waking you up, anyway).

Jessica