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1950s Jaeger LeCoultre Futurematic E501 | Cal. 497 Bumper Movement

1950s Jaeger LeCoultre Futurematic E501 | Cal. 497 Bumper Movement

HK$18,751.00 HKD
HK$18,751.00 HKD
Sale Sold out
Taxes included.

Low stock: 1 left

For more information, please contact us at quaint.collect@gmail.com

Produced for only eight years between 1951 and 1958, the LeCoultre Futurematic has a relatively brief production run, making it a relatively rare sight in vintage horology. This example, the reference E501, features a 10k gold-filled case with distinctive sword-shaped lugs — a less common variation among Futurematics, which are more often seen with long, slender or horn-style lugs. Personally, I find this design the most wearable: less ornate than the horn-lug versions yet more visually engaging than the simpler, elongated ones.

The most striking feature of the Futurematic is the absence of a conventional crown. Marketed as Jaeger-LeCoultre’s first “fully automatic” wristwatch, it eliminated the need for manual winding. The time-setting mechanism is instead move to the caseback. At its debut, the Futurematic was advertised as the most accurate automatic watch in the world, equipped with a hacking seconds mechanism and a 20% larger balance wheel for superior timekeeping stability. Its innovative Caliber 497 movement even included a built-in starter system—retaining a small power reserve once fully unwound, allowing the watch to start immediately when picked up.

The dial design is perfectly symmetrical, with a power reserve indicator on the left and a small seconds sub-dial on the right. Gold dauphine hands and pyramid indices complete the look, giving the watch a refined yet versatile character that works effortlessly with both formal and casual strap pairings. Priced at $99.50 when new—around $1,200 in today’s money—this gold-filled Futurematic represents one of the most forward-thinking designs of its era.

Key Features of this Jaeger LeCoultre Futurematic E501:

  • 34 mm case | 44 mm lug-to-lug | 18 mm lug width
  • 10k gold filled case and snap-on caseback
  • Time-setting "Crown" on caseback
  • World's First "Fully Automatic Wristwatch" with no winding crown
  • Applied gold pyramid-shaped hour marker and gold dauphine hands
  • Power reserve indicator and Hacking second mechanism
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Condition

The dial remains in excellent, honest vintage condition, showing no visible discoloration or patina.

The 10K gold-filled case and lugs appear unpolished, retaining their original sharp lines and definition. The case back is well-preserved with only minor hairline scratches. Some oxidation is visible on the hands and case, and a small portion of the gold-filled layer has worn off near the bottom lugs. The second hand may not be original but matches those found on other vintage Futurematic variants, suggesting it could be a factory replacement.

The automatic movement winds smoothly, with the seconds hand starting immediately when the watch is picked up. The second hacking function operates perfectly when the time-setting crown on the case back is engaged.

Choice of Strap

18 mm | Alran Sable Taupe

Fulfilment & Delivery

Watch will not be released until full payment is received; some payments may require a longer duration time.

All watch purchase will be delivered using express courier service with tracking number (this could be DHL, UPS or Fedex)

Authenticity Guaranteed

Every vintage watch on our site undergoes rigorous authentication by experienced specialist, ensuring originality of core components like the movement, case, dial, hands, and serial numbers, and is sold with a guarantee of authenticity.

While all pieces are sold "as is" to reflect the inherent character and history of true vintage timepieces, each watch is examined inside and out against brand references and historical records by our specialist.

To protect our clients, every watch comes with detailed documentation, high-resolution photos from all angles and condition reports.

Warranty and Return Policy

All of our products are covered with a one year warranty. If you experience any problems with your watch within the warranty period, will we repair it for you. Unfortunately, we do not accept returns or exchanges on purchased items.

Our Packaging For Watches

Our clear watch box keeps your watches safe and protected. The strong plastic case lets you see your watch clearly while keeping it secure during travel and storage.

Inside, there are two protective membranes that:

  • Keep the moisture/ dust out
  • Protect against drops and bumps
Shop Membrane Clear Case

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