c. 1962 Longines Grand Prize 14ct Automatic Gent’s wristwatch;

Specification:   Movement; calibre 341 (17jewel); Serial 12064498 (manufactured 1962)

Case; 14ct Yellow Gold; Ref. 69-308A; serial number 1242011

 

Description:     This 1962 Longines Grand Prize is an excellent example with a rare dial layout. Housed in the 14ct gold mono-bloc case is their excellent calibre 341, a 17 jewel movement with eccentrically mounted rotor. This is an early example of a slim automatic watch. The designers have cleverly made the case out of a single block of gold, thereby eradicating the space taken by joints of the bezel and case back to the main body. Also, in the movement, by mounting the rotor to one side, rather than centrally as standard, a thick bridge over the centre wheels wasn’t necessary, and by creating the full wheel of the rotor with internal teeth it allowed the wheels required to turn the kinetic motion of the wrist into power for the mainspring to be dropped into otherwise “dead” space in the movement.

 

                        The design of the dial also shows great style. The movement of the date window to 12 o’clock may now seem odd, but in the early sixties the standard 3 o’clock position hadn’t been settled upon, and this allows for a large date window without it protruding into the dial too much, as well as giving a pleasing symmetry. The smaller internal dial indicating the seconds also makes it very clear to read, useful for doctors timing a pulse rate for example, and the watch retains its original shortened second hand to give the measure. The hour and minute hands are very clever, giving a clearly visible bar across the dial, but then precise indication with the narrowed tips. Overall it is good condition, with only minor age related marking.

 

                        The case, which is in very good order with its original Longines crown, gives this watch away as an American model. Not only the use of 14ct gold (the British standards being generally 9ct & 18ct), but also the name of Wittnauer to be found in the caseback. 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.)

 

                        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 stunning watch oozing style and in excellent original condition would make a great addition to any collection, or as a standout piece in its own right. Please email or call us should you require any further information or to purchase this beautiful watch.

£1,195

If you have any queries please contact us by email:

 

allinthebalancewatches@gmail.com

 

Or call us on;

07936 049 262

 

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