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Preliminary identification

Longines Admiral Automatic 'Cushion Case' Wristwatch

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic 1970s stainless steel timepiece featuring a distinctive 'cushion' case and a silvered sunburst dial. This model represents the transition of Swiss watchmaking into the bold, geometric aesthetics of the 'Space Age' era.

Story

The 1970s was a decade of radical transformation for the Swiss watch industry, as makers fought to maintain their prestige against the rising tide of digital technology.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1832, Longines holds the distinction of having the oldest unchanged trademark in the world: the winged hourglass.

Condition & Value

The case appears to retain its original factory brushing, which is highly desirable as many vintage watches lose their sharp lines to over-polishing. There is minor surface wear on the bezel and bracelet consistent with careful use.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD