Longines is considered to be a pioneer in the chronograph’s evolution. First launched in 1936, their 13ZN chronograph is still considered today as one of the most beautiful and technically interesting chronograph movements ever produced. Designed as a flyback chronograph, this allowed the wearer to reset the chronograph without having to push the stop button, and then reset. For pilots, this was advantageous, allowing for precision timing of two sequential events, and aided in navigation as a critical feature in the early days of aviation. This “Tre Tacche” reference 4974 is an absolutely impressive example of a 13ZN-based chronograph. Presenting so many of the coveted attributes a collector would hope to find, it was prominently featured over two pages in John Goldberger’s reference book, “Longines Watches”. Its salmon colored dial is gorgeous, with a red telemeter scale, blue outer tachymeter scale, and two oversized registers. The robust, water resistant and antimagnetic case features a screw-down case back with three notches, nicknamed “tre tacche” for the three grooves carved into the caseback. Not only an outstanding collectible, but also a practical, elegant watch. Preserved in exceptional, original condition, the present Longines is a worthy addition to a collection of exceptional chronograph timepieces.