Longines - Geneva Watch Auction: FOUR Geneva Friday, November 11, 2016 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Longines
    Year: circa 1922
    Reference No: Longines
    Movement No: 2'974'954
    Case No: 2'974'954
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 13.33, 18 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: 18K yellow gold Gay Frères signed bracelet measuring 170mm max.
    Clasp/Buckle: 2 18K yellow gold end link clasps secured to case
    Dimensions: 35mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming sale of the present watch on February 8, 1923 in Cuervo y Sobrinos in Cuba

  • Catalogue Essay

    The present lot speaks to the watch aficionado both for its movement and its retailer signature. The Longines caliber 13.33 was developed in 1913 and is part of a long line of high-quality desirable chronograph movements manufactured by the firm.
    This example has many unusual features that can make the heart of the collector beat faster. First and foremost is the superb enamel dial with red ‘12’ hour marker, a carry-over from enamel dial pocket watches of the era. It further stands out with the highly desirable "Cuervo Y Sobrinos" retailer signature – the prestigious retailer in Havana, Cuba, founded in 1882. Unusually, the Longines name is printed in a semi-circular manner, something rarely done, but in this case to accommodate the retailer’s signature. Finally the early Gay Frères bracelet accompanying this watch is a study in workmanship style, with its wonderfully crafted mesh and flexible centerpiece that allows the bracelet to adjust to the size of the wearer’s wrist. Visually and technically enchanting, it’s a gorgeous example of an early Longines chronograph certain to please any vintage watch enthusiast.

  • 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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126

Ref. Longines
An unusual and attractive yellow gold single-button chronograph wristwatch with enamel dial, retailed by Cuervo y Sobrinos

circa 1922
35mm. Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF10,000 - 15,000 
€9,200-13,800
$10,300-15,500

Sold for CHF20,000

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
+41 22 317 81 89

Geneva Watch Auction: FOUR

Geneva Auctions 12 – 13 November 2016