Manufacturer: Longines Year: 1940 Reference No: 3474 Movement No: 5’827’616 Case No: 5’827’616 Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 13ZN, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile Clasp/Buckle: Gilt pin buckle Dimensions: 34mm diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed Accessories: Delivered with Longines Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the present timepiece and invoiced on 30th June 1940 to the company Wirth in Switzerland.
Catalogue Essay
The present timepiece is a perfect example of the enigmatic style of the 1940s chronograph wristwatch. Regarded as one of the most important manufacturers of chronograph wristwatches at the time, Longines first introduced their in-house cal. 13.33Z in 1913 featuring a Breguet hairspring beating at 18,000 vph. In 1936, the firm introduced arguably their most important chronograph cal. 13ZN.
The present Longines ref. 3474 from 1940 powered by cal. 13ZN is a wonderful example encased in an 18K yellow gold 34mm diameter case with a “glossy” black dial with gilt text. Extremely attractive, the combination of the yellow gold case contrasted against a black gilt dial is always desirable. Exuding strong vintage aura and confirmed by a Longines Extract from the Archives, the present example will surely please aficionados of vintage chronograph timepieces.
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.