Manufacturer: Longines Year: 1942 Reference No: 21391 Movement No: 6'152'144 Model Name: NO-MAG Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, 13ZN Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel folding stretch link bracelet Clasp/Buckle: Folding deployant clasp, signed F & R, BEV & DEM Dimensions: 35mm. Diameter Signed:Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Longines Extract from the Archives
Catalogue Essay
The present Longines chronograph reference 21391 is, without a doubt, one of the rarest, most attractive and best preserved Longines chronographs to come to the market in recent years. It is not only in all original and unrestored condition and features also a number of very rare technical elements but also an interesting history. In fact, the Archives of Longines confirm that it was sold originally to China. The most unusual feature can be found on the dial where, underneath the Longines signature, it is printed “NO-MAG” (for non-magnetic). We cannot remember having seen another chronograph with such a designation on the dial. The case back is characterised by the unusual “two ears”, a feature to help watchmakers to more safely open the case back in view of its enhanced water resistance. The case has most likely never been polished and harmonises very well with the period flexible steel bracelet composed of outer polished and inner satin finished links.
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.