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No Reserve

859

Longines

"Tre-Tacche"

A rare and early stainless steel antimagnetic wristwatch with small seconds and black dial

Estimate
HK$50,000 - 80,000
€5,700 - 9,100
$6,400 - 10,300
HK$69,850
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Longines
Year
Circa 1937
Movement No
5’539’287
Case No
1’660, further stamped 67
Model Name
"Tre-Tacche"
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. 12.68Z, jewelled
Bracelet/Strap
Leather
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel unsigned pin buckle
Dimensions
35mm diameter
Signed
Case, dial and movement signed
Accessories
Delivered with Longines Extract from the Archives dated 28th November 2019, confirming the present watch was sold on 3rd December 1937 to the company Ostersetzer, Longines’ agent for Italy.
Catalogue Essay
Founded by Auguste Agassiz in 1832, Longines is renowned for its exceptional production of pilot and military chronograph wristwatches. However, dedicated vintage collectors recognize that the Longines “Tre-Tacche” models from the 1930s to 1940s are equally desirable and collectible. These timepieces are celebrated for their refined proportions and elegant simplicity, paving the way for the classic stainless steel sports watch.

The present timepiece features a striking black dial with silver printing. Its minimalistic design is enhanced by a stepped bezel, which adds visual depth. The dial has aged beautifully, developing a charming patina that contributes to the watch's character.

The large 35mm antimagnetic and waterproof steel case is equipped with a screw-down case back, adorned with three notches, which gives this model its nickname, “Tre-Tacche”. It is powered by a robust manual-wound movement, caliber 12.68Z, which is produced from the 1930s to the 1950s.

Preserved in attractive condition, the engravings on the case back and the numbers behind the lug remain remarkably crisp. Delivered with a Longines extract, this example was invoiced on December 3, 1937, to Ostersetzer, Longines’s agent for Italy at the time. This understated vintage Longines “Tre-Tacche” is a must-have for the discerning collector.

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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