Manufacturer: Longines Year: 1948 Reference No: 5415 Movement No: 7'222'792 Case No: 23'423 74 Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, 13ZN, 17 jewels, stamped "LXW" Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle Dimensions: 37mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Longines Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch and its subsequent invoicing to Longines-Wittnauer Watch Co. - their agent at the time for the USA - on January 26, 1948.
Catalogue Essay
Mid-20th century Longines stainless steel chronograph wristwatches represent a remarkably collectible category of timepieces, both in virtue of their aesthetics, and of their technical proficiency as well. They are known both for their rugged masculine appeal and extraordinary caliber 13ZN movement. Introduced in 1936, the 13ZN was a large movement with flyback mechanism allowing the wearer to reset the watch without stopping it. This feature was particularly useful in aviation when dead reckoning flying was required. Watches from this period were offered in cases ranging from 34mm to 38mm, and with snap on backs like the present watch or screw down cases.
The present example features a very contemporary (and actually oversize for the time) case with a 37mm diameter. The entire piece is preserved in exceptional and absolutely original condition. The luminous material has severely darkened with age, amplifying both the vintage feeling and - a lucky "additional bonus" - the legibility of the watch. The deep warm patina that has developed on the surface of the dial is the perfect complement to the numerals, the final ensemble representing a superb, unrestored and extremely well preserved of the mythical "13 ZN".
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.