Preliminary identification

Longines Automatic 'Cushion Case' Diver-Style Watch, c.1972

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A robust and stylish example of 1970s Swiss horology, featuring a distinctive stainless steel cushion-shaped case and a rotating external bezel.

Story

The year 1972 was a turning point in design, where the world moved away from the slim silhouettes of the 60s toward bold, experimental geometries. This watch, identified by its 16.6 million series serial number, was born right in the heart of that revolution.

Maker / Origin

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

Condition & Value

The case shows honest 'desk diving' scratches and wear consistent with its 50-year history, but the lugs remain sharp. The bezel has some fading to the black paint in the recessed numbers, which adds a desirable vintage character. The strap is a modern leather replacement with contrast stitching that complements the 70s aesthetic.

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