Manufacturer: Longines Year: Circa 1960 Reference No: 5967 Movement No: 1'1826'824 Case No: 64 Material: 18K pink gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 30CH, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile Clasp/Buckle: Gold plated Longines buckle Dimensions: 38mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by Longines hang tag and presentation box.
Catalogue Essay
This exceptional pink gold chronograph wristwatch is a study on how a timepiece has slept in a safe for over half a century. It most notably boasts a case size of 38mm, which was unusually large for the period, when the norm was watch cases of 36mm or even less.
Calibre 30CH is unanimously considered one of the best chronograph movements of the mid twentieth century. Incorporating a flyback function, the movement allows for the chronograph to be instantaneously reset and restarted, enormously useful for practical applications.
The case is preserved in most probably unpolished condition with sharp bevels and crisp edges throughout. Two deep and sharp hallmarks can be found beneath the lugs. The dial barely shows any sign of aging, and the case remains as crisp as it was the day it left the factory. Such gems hardly appear on the market, no less in such untouched and original condition.
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.