LONGINES, REF. 5824, A RARE AND UNUSUAL STEEL SINGLE BUTTON FLYBACK CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH
SERIAL NUMBER: NO. 7'642'127
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Estimate
USD 30,000 - USD 50,000
Estimates do not reflect the final hammer price and do not include buyer's premium, any applicable taxes or artist's resale right. Please see the Conditions of Sale for full details.
Closed: 4 May 2023
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LONGINES, REF. 5824, A RARE AND UNUSUAL STEEL SINGLE BUTTON FLYBACK CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH
The present piece is a remarkable and very well preserved example of an aviator’s wristwatch from the mid-twentieth century. The aesthetic language of the piece expresses an absolute commitment to the professional nature of the watch: the dial is extremely readable, the black finish maximizing the contrast with the luminous numerals.
The choice of placing the engraved scale of the revolving bezel on a sloped plane inside the crystal increases its size, and thus its readability, and protects it from scratches and impacts. The 47.5 mm. diameter of the watch is judged today as very appealing and not unusual, but in the 1940s it would have been considered preposterous on a non-professional timepiece.
Of course the large size is dictated both by readability considerations, and also by the fact that the watch would be worn on top of the aviator’s jacket. The crown as well is designed specifically for its elective task: the large size and ribbed finish are an aid to using it while wearing aviator’s gloves.
Considered the harsh condition such watches were subject to during their normal use, to find such an appealing and well preserved example is nothing short of exceptional.
A similar watch is prominently described and illustrated in Longines Watches by John Goldberger, pp. 138-139. It is interesting to point out how that piece bears a similar “NAV” engraving to the back, and the picture of the original archive book shows that the example in the book as well was originally delivered to the Netherlands
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Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
CASE: Case in very good condition, light scratches and dents throughout. Small scratches from improper opening of the watch. DIAL: The dial is in excellent condition due to its age. With very slight stains, very slight scratches and fine dirt throughout. Hands are original and with same color of luminous as on the dial. The luminous accents are worn, reacting to U.V light exposure but not glowing for a prolonged period of time. MOVEMENT: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing and all functions are working, however, a service is recommended. The central minute counter hand and the second counter hand do not jump back perfectly to 12, very slightly off.
PLEASE NOTE 1. All lots are sold "AS IS", and this condition report is provided purely as a goodwill service and may not specify all mechanical replacements or defects. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in good condition and without defects, repairs or restoration. You are accordingly encouraged to view the lots personally or through your own professional advisor. 2. For further information on these issues, please refer to the terms and conditions. We thank you for your interest in the forthcoming sale. We remind you again that all property is sold “as is” and should be viewed personally by you.
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Lot 30Sale 21993
SERIAL NUMBER: NO. 7'642'127LONGINES, REF. 5824, A RARE AND UNUSUAL STEEL SINGLE BUTTON FLYBACK CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCHEstimate: USD 30,000 - 50,000
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