Manufacturer: Longines Year: 1945 Reference No: 23001 Movement No: 6'877'717 Case No: 936'877'717 Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Mechanical, 13ZN, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Brown suede leather strap Dimensions: 37 mm. diameter Signed:Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: With Longines Extract from the Archives confirming the present watch was invoiced on 7 September 1945 to the company Longines-Wittnauer, which was at that time the agent for the USA. Literature: For a similar example, please see Longines Watches by John Goldberger, pages 194 and 195.
Catalogue Essay
In 1936, Longines developed their most famous caliber. The caliber 13 ZN was available in various version, featuring a 30 or 60 minute register and one or two chronograph pushers.
The present reference 23001 features a 30 minute register, two chronograph buttons and is retained in the most appealing and original condition. The movement of this watch is stamped LXW, which is the American import mark for Longines-Wittnauer. Fitting, as research shows that the present watch was invoiced on 7 September 1945 to the company Longines-Wittnauer, which was at that time the firm's agent for the United States.
The case is also stamped with Longines specific numbering system, where the case number is repeated on the upper left lug.
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.