Longines - START-STOP-RESET: 88 Epic Stainless Steel Chronographs Geneva Friday, May 13, 2016 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Longines
    Year: 1937
    Reference No: 6476/3811
    Movement No: 5’457’387
    Case No: 5’457’387
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 13ZN, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel, max. length 170mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel folding deployant clasp
    Dimensions: 37.5mm diameter
    Signed: Dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming that the present watch was manufactured on October 11, 1937 and delivered to Weissblüth, Longines’ agent in Romania at that time.

  • Catalogue Essay

    In the early 1930s, Longines was a pioneer in making a wide variety of watches for pilots and military personnel, most notably the Weems and Lindbergh models. In order to keep track of their military issued watches, they created serial codes for each pilot that was given a watch.

    Scholarship tells us that the present single-button chronograph was made for a Romanian military pilot, Sireteanu Alexandri from the M.A.M. (Ministry of Air and Marine) unit in 1937. The black dial features large luminous Arabic numerals and hands, while the rotating bezel also is fitted with a luminous triangular arrow for clear visibility during night flights. Interestingly, this chronograph is one of the earliest models ever made with a revolving bezel.

    The present watch is an excellent, original example of a large vintage Longines chronograph, further enhanced by its rarity and superb condition. Fitted with the legendary 13ZN manually wound movement, the case and movement number are perfectly matched. This watch is believed to be one of only so many made, and is sure to make a great addition to any collection of fine timepieces.

  • Artist Biography

    Longines

    Swiss • 1832

    Auguste Agassiz founded Longines in 1832, and today is considered to be a pioneer in the evolution of the chronograph. During the 1930s, Longines' chronograph wristwatches were used as tools for wartime aviators and military personnel. As one of Switzerland's largest manufacturers, Longines was an important supplier of wristwatches to militaries of multiple nations.

    Today, they are owned by the Swatch Group and produce wristwatches for both men and women. Their vintage wristwatches continue to grow in desirability amongst collectors. Some of the most sought-after models include such oversized chronographs as the Lindbergh Hour Angle designed by Charles Lindbergh, Chronostop, Tre Tacche, A-7, Tasti a Spillo and Doppia Lanchetta.

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Ref. 6476/3811
An extremely rare and highly attractive stainless steel pilot’s single button chronograph displaying a black dial featuring Arabic numerals, revolving bezel and bracelet, made for Romanian Military pilot Sireteanu Alexandri.

1937
37.5mm diameter
Dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF30,000 - 60,000 

Sold for CHF52,500

Contact Specialist
Livia Russo
+41 22 317 81 86

START-STOP-RESET: 88 Epic Stainless Steel Chronographs

Geneva Auction 14 May 2016