A classic Longines Chronograph secretely fetched $88,000 at Goodwill auction.
In an unexpected turn of events, a vintage Longines watch from the 1940s has made headlines after selling for a princely sum of $88,197.70 at a Goodwill auction. The watch in question is the highly collectible Longines ref. 5699 "Doppia Lancetta," a testament to early 20th-century chronograph excellence.
Historical Background
The Longines ref. 5699 "Doppia Lancetta" dates back to a period when mechanical chronographs were gaining popularity, particularly for military and professional use. Longines, a prestigious Swiss watchmaker founded in 1832, was one of the pioneers in chronograph technology. By the 1930s and 1940s, Longines was renowned for precision timing and innovation.
The Caliber 13ZN
The unique appeal of the ref. 5699 lies in its use of the cal. 13ZN, a movement considered one of the finest and most advanced of its era. Launched in 1936, the 13ZN was a landmark movement in watchmaking history. It featured a column wheel mechanism, a flyback function, and an integrated chronograph, making it slender, reliable, and technologically advanced for its time.
Significance of the Ref. 5699 "Doppia Lancetta"
The twin chronograph hands of the ref. 5699 make it visually striking and rare. Few of these watches were produced, making surviving examples quite rare and highly sought after at auction. The watch encapsulates Longines’ mastery of chronograph technology just before World War II and represents a peak in mid-20th century mechanical watchmaking.
Collectors prize the ref. 5699 not just for its rarity but for its graceful design, legibility, and the celebrated reliability of the cal. 13ZN. It commands high prices among vintage chronograph enthusiasts and is often featured in museum collections and exhibitions on horological milestones.
The Sold Watch
The Longines watch sold at Goodwill was a vintage ref. 5699 "Doppia Lancetta" from the 1940s. It featured an oversized, waterproof chronograph housed in a stepped case measuring approximately 39.5mm in diameter. The central seconds hand was blued steel and long, while the central minutes hand was shorter, thicker, and bright red. The remainder of the dial featured classic '40s/'50s design language.
While the reason for the high price of the Longines watch is not specified, it's worth noting that exceptionally rare watches have been sold for their worth through Goodwill auctions in the past. The Longines watch sold for $88,197.70 is not visually impressive but fetched a high price, underscoring the allure of collectible timepieces.
In conclusion, the Longines ref. 5699 "Doppia Lancetta" is a prized testament to early 20th-century chronograph excellence. Its significance lies largely in its use of the caliber 13ZN — a movement that represents groundbreaking watchmaking technology in terms of integration, functionality, and mechanical refinement. As a vintage collectible, it symbolizes both Longines’ rich heritage and the art of precision timing that defined an era.
Shopping for a unique vintage watch, one might consider exploring gadgets and technology at a reputable store. The Longines ref. 5699 "Doppia Lancetta," a testament to early 20th-century chronograph excellence, can be a fascinating addition to one's collection, given its historical background and the highly desired caliber 13ZN.
