Longines 18K Gold Large 35mm, 1956

Description

Longines is one of the oldest Swiss watch manufacturers with an unparalleled history of invention, innovation, patents and awards. They are also responsible some of the most beautiful watches ever made. And here we have just such an example from 1956 when Longines were competing head to head with the best in the world. A large 35mm case in 18ct Yellow Gold (solid) and with the most elegant silver and gold dial with subsidiary seconds at ‘6’. It is certainly one of the most attractive watches we have in stock right now and all in outstanding, or close to mint condition

The Dial

Just Magnificent! yellow gold on a silver, with a subsidiary seconds hand at 6 o’clock. This is a lesson in the clean and simple elegance of the period and is just wonderful… The original dial has been refinished to the highest possible standard and is now as good as new. The hands and lens are also in ‘as new’ condition. This is very hard to beat!

The Case

An immaculate 18ct yellow gold case with swept back lugs which raises the case slightly on the wrist and emphasises its presence. At 35mm diameter not including the Logines crown, this watch is large for the period. Often when you find large cases on 1950s watches it means they are ‘custom made’ in South America, for that market. This is not such a case, it is stamped FAB SUISSE and SWISSMADE so there is no confusion. Inside the case-back all is as it should be, signed Longines with the Longines logo, 18ct hallmarks with 18K, 0.750 1056. The case has been professionally cleaned and lightly polished and is in superb condition showing only very minimal signs of wear.

The Movement

The high grade Cal 23Z hand wind movement here is one of Logines most successful, remaining in production, in-house, for over 12 years from 1948 onwards. The movement is fitted with an “incabloc” device which protects it against shocks and magnetic fields. Thanks to its large balance, the movement can be regulated with great precision.

This is the original Cal 23Z movement, in sparkling ‘as new’ condition, signed Longines, 17 Jewels, 23z and 11310630 dating the watch to 1956. This watch has obviously been vey well cared for with only occasional use. We have just serviced this movement and we are very happy to offer it with a 12 months warranty* With care and with regular servicing, say every 3 to 4 years we would fully expect this watch to run quite happily for another lifetime!

The Strap & Buckle

A high quality brown ‘croc’ padded leather strap is fitted with a gold plated buckle. If you have a preference for another colour, for example dark brown or a different style of leather we will be pleased to change it for you.

The Box and Papers

There are no original papers with this watch. However the numbers and markings on the watch are all correct and date the watch to 1956. A detailed written receipt, warranty* and a separate insurance valuation for the replacement value will be provided at the time of sale. The watch will be supplied in the new good quality presentation box as shown.

Note : The last photograph is of the inside of the lid of a vintage Longines presentation box of the period. It is a wonderfully informative example of Longines marketing of the period and it makes many bold but undoubtably accurate claims, The first of which reads ‘Longines the world’s most honoured watch” Then “Winners of highest honours at 38 International Expositions”. “Classified first by the great Government Observertories”. “Official watch for Championship Sports the world over”. And “The Premier Watch of Aviation, Exploration and Science”. Quite a roll call of achievements when the humble wristwatch was one of the leading technological advances of the day.

In Conclusion

This really is a magnificent vintage gold Longines. We have always admired vintage Longines and have never quite understood why they are so overlooked. Technically they hold their own with the much more famous brands such as Omega and Rolex. Whatever the reasons they represent amazingly good value just now, considering the quality and excellent pedigree.

So this is an extremely rare and highly collectable vintage gold watch from one of horology’s most respected names which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as something to treasure and enjoy!

We are happy to accept Paypal as this is the quickest method of payment. However we would prefer payment by bank transfer or even a cheque as this saves on fees. Please call us first and we will be happy to pass on the savings to you.

For more information and to discuss the price and payment, please call or text Alan on 07515949250 or +44 7515949250 if calling from overseas.

*12 months warranty only applicable if the ‘Buy It Now’ price is paid.

We are able to take part exchanges.