estateRUTH.

Preliminary identification

Longines Admiral HF 5-Star Automatic, c.1972

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A superb example of Swiss precision engineering, this Longines Admiral HF features the prestigious 'five-star' dial and a high-frequency mechanical movement.

Story

The early 1970s were a 'space race' for the wrist, with Swiss manufacturers pushing mechanical limits to combat the rise of quartz 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 dial and hands appear to be in excellent, original condition with no significant spotting or 'patina' damage. The case shows light, honest wear consistent with age, and the mesh bracelet appears to be a period-correct or modern replacement rather than the original factory strap.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

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