LeCoultre Futurematic E501 Box and Papers

“Engineered to be the most accurate automatic watch in all the world” – this was how LeCoultre confidently promoted its Futurematic. This slogan can still be found today on the original box and papers that accompany this watch.

The Futurematic was produced between 1951 and 1958 and represents a true marvel of engineering. Its most extraordinary feature: it has no visible crown. Manual winding is not possible – a revolutionary idea for an automatic watch of the early 1950s. Instead, the watch is powered solely by the movement of the wrist.

At nine o'clock sits the power reserve indicator. If the hand points to the red sector, the mainspring tension is too low. Yet after just a few wrist movements, the indicator rises and the watch runs with precision once again.

For setting the time, however, there is indeed a crown – cleverly hidden on the back of the case. By pushing it inward, the movement switches into setting mode, allowing the hands to be adjusted.

Visually, the Futurematic is an absolute beauty. The present example impresses with a black gilt dial accented in gold. The harmoniously arranged subsidiary dials for seconds and power reserve give the watch a modern, almost futuristic aura – very much in the spirit of the 1950s.

The elegant stainless-steel case with gracefully curved lugs adds timeless presence. Combined with the black dial, it results in a watch that captivates both technically and aesthetically.

The LeCoultre Futurematic was primarily built for the US market – hence the use of “LeCoultre” on the dial and papers instead of “Jaeger-LeCoultre”. Examples of this model are considerably rarer in Europe, especially when offered in such an authentic set with its original box and papers.

The Futurematic E501 is a piece of watchmaking history – a visionary project far ahead of its time. With its unconventional operating concept, innovative technology, and distinctive design, it ranks among the most exciting and arguably maddest creations of the 1950s. A true masterpiece for collectors, uniting technology, history, and aesthetics in a unique way.

Condition Report
Dial: black glossy dial in excellent condition – original luminous material – perfectly preserved gilt print – signed “LeCoultre Futurematic Swiss”.

Case: 37 mm stainless-steel case in excellent condition – very light traces of wear – intact engraving of the serial number on the caseback.

Movement: automatic LeCoultre caliber 491 – timing results: rate deviation: -4s/day, amplitude: 234, beat error: 1.7.

Serial number: 632xxx

Int.Exe.: 18201