c.1952 Longines 14ct Automatic Gent’s wristwatch; 

Specification:   Movement; calibre 19A (17jewel); Serial 8911194 (manufactured 1952)

Case; 14ct Yellow Gold; Ref. 2164-2; Serial 2237993.

Quite simply stunning. A beautiful design in original condition, in its original box and even with its original, and very early and rare, buckle. Housing a rare automatic calibre 19A, the 14ct yellow gold case has been very well designed to carry the extra depth required by the automatic rotor. The movement itself follows the trend at the time for a large rotor completely covering a much smaller movement. Most Longines automatics at this time contained the calibre 22A(S), which whilst still being rare, was not used in as few watches as the 19A(S) models.

                        The original dial is very “fifties” in style. Very understated, with a silver brushed finish, the spaces between the shaped baton hour markers shows a “swag” pattern achieved by engine turning. A subtle feature showing great care and attention to detail, and it’s just this type of detail that shows the exceptional quality of the brand.

The case betrays this watch as an American model. It is in very good order with the correct style and size crown, (a later replacement from a previous service). Made in 14ct gold (the British standards being generally 9ct & 18ct), but also the name of Wittnauer to be found in the caseback give away its original sales origin. Wittnauer was founded in New York in around 1885 and during the twentieth century had a very strong connection with Longines, being the brands American importers. This allowed the companies to import Longines movements into the US to be housed in American made cases (made to Longines design and specification) thus bypassing high luxury goods import duty.  By 1950 the connection was so strong that Longines bought Wittnauer, but both names were still used for many years, often hyphenated in the cases, but bearing only the Longines name to the movement and dial. (The same loophole had been used for many years in the UK, and often precious metal cases hallmarked here would bear the initials AB, for Arthur Baume, the UK Longines importer.) In detail the shoulders, or lugs, have been extended to give a less bulky profile. The case back has a low smooth dome, again allowing it to sit closer to the wrist, and the extra depth has again been visually hidden by a deeper bezel, faceted to give an optical illusion of slenderness. Its original red leather box is in excellent condition, and adds greatly to desirability of this stunning watch.

                        Longines was founded in 1832 and the name inaugurated in 1867 when it moved to its present site of Es Longines (the long meadows) in St-Imier. Renowned for their exceptional quality and accuracy, the brand was awarded more medals for accuracy in observatory trials than any other. It was also involved in many other events which required exceptionally accurate timekeeping, and was the first to use electro-magnetic sports timing in 1912. Now part of the Swatch group and subject to their perception of market position it has taken a bit of a back seat to the groups other brands such as Omega, which has kept the price of their vintage examples down. Its illustrious history and exceptional quality, design and value for money make it one of our favourites. This watch is being sold on behalf of a very good client, has been thoroughly inspected but not serviced in our workshop, and therefore comes with a limited three month warranty, which is reflected in the price. (A service can be completed prior to delivery for an additional charge, thereby giving a 12month guarantee).

            This watch is beautifully presented and exceptionally collectable, retaining original extras that for most watches have long since been lost or thrown away such as the original box and buckle. A wonderful addition to any collection and an excellent investment. Please email or call us should you require any further information or to purchase this beautiful watch.

£1,395