Manufacturer: Longines Year: 1940 Movement No: 5'827'453 Case No: 23'297 Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, 13ZN Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel buckle Dimensions: 39mm. Diameter Signed:Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Longines Extract from the Archives
Catalogue Essay
To many chronograph scholars and historians, Longines’ calibre 13ZN is one of the most beautiful chronograph movements ever built by any manufacturer. The present reference 23297 dates from 1940 and has been sold to Casa Welch, a famous retailer in Lima, Peru. This model is not only impressing with its large diameter but also with its refined case design featuring polished and satin finished elements. It is rare to find vintage wristwatches of ¾ century of age, offering such immense value when worn daily but also of such timeless design.
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.