ABOUT THIS WATCH

Though Longines may be known today as a moderately priced and high volume watch brand currently feeding itself by recreating as many iconic models from their glory days as possible, they were once known as an outstanding and innovative horological powerhouse producing pieces so beautiful and rare that they currently command hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction. Longines produced all kinds of watches, most famously for their chronographs and military watches, but also some wonderful dress models. This Flagship from 1957 is one such piece with a stylish and luxurious aesthetic in line with many of the brand’s other models, but what makes it notable is it’s the first line of watches Longines specifically named for the launch of their first international marketing campaign finally conveying to the world they were a brand of quality, status and prestige. Hence the name Flagship.

The campaign was successful because Longines sold a lot of these watches. But in spite of that it’s extremely difficult to find one in good condition that hasn’t been over worn and over polished, much less one in the kind of fantastic original condition as seen here. This watch literally sat in a storage box for most of its life, ironically evidenced by the very faint radium burn left on the dial from the hands staying in the same position for decades. Other than that, it’s only “flaws” are some evidence of light hand polishing to the case and caseback and a few scratches on the crystal which you can see shadows of on the dial. Also, the radium hands have darkened considerably and the dial is probably a couple shades darker than it was in 1957, but I personally don’t consider these flaws. I consider them features.

Priced to sell, this gorgeous Longines Flagship is keeping time well and is ready to go to a good home whether it be amongst a large collection or the first antique piece for a budding vintage watch enthusiast.

WATCH SPECS

Maker: Longines
Model: Flagship
Reference: N/A
Year: 1957
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 35.5mm diameter; 10.5mm thickness with crystal
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Radium
Caliber: Longines self-winding caliber 30L
Bracelet/Strap: Tan grained leather strap with contract stitch
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: N/A

Note: No guarantees of water resistance because of it’s age