Longines Vintage Military-Style Field Watch
Horological Artifact, Mechanical Wristwatch • Longines (Compagnie des Montres Longines Francillon S.A.)
Style & Movement
Mid-20th Century Utilitarian / Military Design
Medium & Technique
Stainless steel case, enamel or painted metal dial, blued steel hands, mechanical movement
Creation Period
Circa 1940s-1950s
Dimensions & Format
Standard men's vintage wristwatch format, approximately 32mm to 35mm in diameter (circular format)
Subject Description
A round analog wristwatch featuring a cream or patinated white dial with bold Arabic numerals at even intervals (12, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10), dot hour markers, a prominent outer minute track with numerical markers every five units, blued steel hands including a sweeping central seconds hand, and the Longines signature printed horizontally below the 12 o'clock position.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The piece shows visible age-related patina, surface wear on the case, minor scratches on the crystal and dial surface, and discoloration consistent with historical use.
Estimated Market Value
800 - 1500 USD
Auction Estimate
500 - 1000 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a civilian field or military-issued timepiece from the mid-20th century, passed down through private collection or estate channels with standard anonymous ownership history.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of mid-century Swiss horological design and the strong utilitarian aesthetic popularized during and immediately following World War II, showcasing Longines' prominent status as a precision watchmaker of the era.
Notable Features
Distinctive retro font for the Arabic numerals, clear outer track with five-minute intervals, classic Longines signature typography, and balanced minimalist military styling.
Condition Issues
Surface scuffs on the crystal, light foxing or aging spots on the dial, general oxidation and wear on the steel case and fixed or flexible metal bracelet attachments.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional mechanical servicing of the movement, gentle cleaning of the case without removing desirable historical patina, replacement of the crystal only if severely compromised, and preservation in a humidity-controlled environment.