The caliber 13ZN is considered by many collectors as the most beautiful chronograph movement ever produced. Launched in 1936, this caliber featured a flyback chronograph, that allowed the wearer to reset the chronograph without having to push the stop button to reset. Extremely popular amongst pilots, this technological prowess allowed for precision timing of two sequential events, and aided in navigation as a critical feature in the early days of aviation.
The present watch is an extremely attractive example of a reference 4974 from the early 40s. The large, water resistant and antimagnetic case houses the precious caliber. To complement this combination, the watch displays a superbly patinated sandwich dial with gilt Arabic numerals and baton indexes further adorned by the retailer's signature Giudici Milano. The so-called “sandwich dial” to refer to the three dimensional aspect provided by its two layers’ construction, gives the watch an arresting look.
The present “Tre Tacche” nicknamed for the three notches carved into the caseback is an outsanding collectible, yet practical and elegant watch preserved in excellent condition, the present Longines is a worthy addition to a collection of exceptional chronograph timepieces.