Manufacturer: Longines Year: Circa 1954 Reference No: 5045-14 Movement No: 9’195’404 Case No: 24 Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 12.68.ZS, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle Dimensions: 37mm diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Delivered with a Longines Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the present timepiece invoiced on 9th May 1955 to the company Danero in Uruguay.
Catalogue Essay
The present Longines chronometer ref. 5045-14 from circa 1954 encased in a 37mm “Calatrava style” stainless steel case is a simple and elegant timepiece that is blessed by a timeless appeal. Powered by Longines manual cal. 12.68.ZS, a robust caliber typical from the era, the movement runs at a frequency of 18,000 A/h with 41 hours of power reserve. Offered in attractive overall condition with a silvery dial and black Arabic numerals in Bauhaus style, it further boasts an unpolished case with sharp case edges and bevels.
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.