Longines - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII Hong Kong Friday, May 24, 2024 | Phillips

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  • Condition Report

  • Description

    View our Conditions of Sale.

  • Manufacturer: Longines
    Year: Circa 1956
    Reference No: 6630
    Movement No: 9’686’330
    Case No: 60
    Model Name: Swissair
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 37.9S, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel unsigned pin buckle
    Dimensions: 47mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Longines Extract from the Archives confirming this wristwatch was invoiced on 24th September 1956 to the Swissair company in Switzerland, blank guarantee booklet, additional unsigned leather strap and original presentation box with Swissair logo.
    Literature: This model is prominently featured and illustrated in the book "Longines Through Time", published by Longines, pp. 132-133.

  • Catalogue Essay

    In the 1950s, with the advent of long-range commercial air travel, some watchmaking companies forged partnerships with major airlines to develop watches specifically tailored to the needs of pilots. Among these companies, Longines has a rich history of producing innovative aviator timepieces, including the renowned Lindbergh Hour Angle and Weems Second Setting models, which were designed in collaboration with the pioneering American aviator, Charles Lindbergh.

    Swissair, the former national airline of Switzerland that operated from 1931 to 2002, approached Longines to create a wristwatch for their pilots. In addition to its oversized pilot-style case with an onion crown, this watch boasted a distinctive 24-hour dial that ensures optimal legibility. Our research indicates that these special watches were exclusively given to Swissair pilots and staff members and were never made available to the general public.

    The present reference 6630 is believed to be part of a limited series of less than 100 examples ever produced. The back of the watch is engraved with the name of the company and an issue number, such as "60" in this particular watch. The Extract of the Archives accompanying the watch further confirms that it was sold directly to Swissair, highlighting the direct collaboration between the airline and Longines, rather than being distributed through their dealers.

    The same reference was sold previously at our Geneva Watch Auction: XIII in 2021 for CHF138,600. Exceptionally well-preserved, the present example retains sharp engravings on the caseback and a dial that exhibits minimal signs of aging. It is accompanied by the original presentation box adorned with the "Swissair" insignia, an incredibly rare and charming detail that adds to its uniqueness.

  • 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.

    View More Works

1051

Ref. 6630
An extremely rare and oversized stainless steel pilot's wristwatch with center seconds, 24-hour dial, guarantee and presentation box, made for Swissair

Circa 1956
47mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$400,000 - 800,000 
€47,900-95,800
$51,300-103,000

Place Advance Bid
Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2031
WatchesHK@phillips.com
 

Gertrude Wong
Head of Sale, Hong Kong
+ 852 2318 2045
gertrudewong@phillips.com
 

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVIII

Hong Kong Auction 24 - 25 May 2024