Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a vintage Longines Ultra-Chron automatic wristwatch, celebrated for its legendary high-frequency movement. Featuring a brushed champagne dial with applied indices and the distinctive Ultra-Chron logo, it represents a pinnacle moment of Swiss mechanical engineering.
Story
In 1967, Longines debuted the Ultra-Chron to mark its centenary. It beat at a blistering 36,000 vibrations per hour to guarantee accuracy within a minute a month, outracing standard watches of its era.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1832 in Saint-Imier, Longines is one of Switzerland's oldest and most prestigious watchmakers, historically revered for timing aviation feats and major sporting events. Their in-house calibers from the mid-20th century are widely considered among the finest mass-produced mechanical movements ever created.
Condition & Value
The dial shows light vintage patina, and the crystal displays mild surface scratching. The owner notes one slightly bent lug, and the watch is fitted with an aftermarket expansion bracelet. Case integrity remains strong, though the bent lug and any service needs moderately temper collector value by 15–25%.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.