Manufacturer: Longines Year: 1943 Reference No: 4974 Movement No: 6'398'742 Case No: 22'184 further stamped 28 Model Name: "Tre Tacche" Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 13ZN, 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle Dimensions: 37.5mm Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Longines Extract from the Archives confirming sale of the present watch on 24 February, 1943. Literature: The present watch will be featured in the upcoming FERO 150 Steel Chronographs by Pucci Papaleo Editions.
Catalogue Essay
Longines is considered to be a pioneer in the chronograph evolution. First launched in 1936, the Longines 13ZN chronograph movement is still considered today as one of the most beautiful and technically interesting wristwatch chronograph movements ever produced. Designed as a flyback chronograph, the user can quickly reset the chronograph seconds hand to zero while its still running without the need to first stop it. This avant garde caliber not only impresses collectors but watchmakers as well. It is no secret that the watchmakers and engineers of the venerable German brand A. Lange & Söhne took inspiration from the Longines 13ZN when creating the caliber L951.1, their acclaimed, inhouse chronograph movement launched in 1999 in the Datograph.
The present lot boasts a large 37.5mm stepped case and a lovely ivory colored multi scale dial. The screw-down casebacks, as found on the present lot, are highly desirable and nicknamed “tre tacche” in Italian. The literal translation in English is three notches, and refers to the three grooves carved out on the casebacks, permitting them to be screwed down. The caseback is stamped ‘28’ matching with the number found on the underside of the case’s lug.
The present lot is a fine example of Longine’s savoir faire and is both visually and technically stimulating.
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.