Antique Longines Pocket Watch in 18K Gold. Switzerland, c. 1920

Antique Longines Pocket Watch in 18K Gold. Switzerland, circa 1920

This elegant Longines pocket watch, dated around 1920, is an exceptional piece of early 20th-century Swiss watchmaking. Made of solid 18K gold, it combines refined design with mechanical precision in a classic lepine format, with the crown at twelve o’clock. Its generous 46 mm size and weight of 62.2 grams give it a strong presence, making it both a functional and decorative object.

The white enamel dial features black Arabic numerals and a subsidiary seconds dial at six o’clock. The blued steel leaf-shaped hands add a visually appealing contrast and allow for easy time reading. At the center of the dial, the “Longines” signature is discreetly inscribed, guaranteeing its Swiss origin and superb quality.

This is a lepine-type watch, with the crown at twelve. The front crystal cover opens to access the mechanical movement, signed by Longines and numbered 3771258. The inner case also bears the “18K” hallmark and Swiss assay mark, certifying that the case is made of solid gold.

The movement is in exceptional condition. It is clean, rust-free, shows no signs of wear, and is in perfect working order. All parts are original, and the watch runs with precision. The engraved serial number accurately dates the piece to the 1920s, a golden age for Longines, known for its technical excellence and commitment to elegance.

The back of the case features exquisite guilloché work with a central floral crest, ideal for personal engraving if desired. This elegant decorative detail sets the watch apart from simpler or more industrial models of the period.

A pocket watch like this is a true gem for those who appreciate it. It represents the refinement of a bygone era while maintaining full functionality. Ideal for collectors or anyone wishing to wear a unique accessory. Perfect as a gift for a vintage watch enthusiast or to add to a serious collection of gold and precision timepieces.

A piece full of soul, history, and elegance, don’t miss the chance to make it yours.

Dimensions: 4.6 cm (1.81 in). Weight: 62.2 g.

History of Longines

Longines was founded in 1832 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, by Auguste Agassiz. From the beginning, the brand stood out for its dedication to mechanical precision and elegant design, two values that remain its core principles to this day. In 1867, Longines introduced its first in-house movement, laying the foundation for high-quality industrial watch production. Its winged hourglass logo, one of the oldest still in use today, symbolizes reliability and tradition.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Longines gained international prestige, winning numerous awards at world fairs and universal exhibitions, from Paris to Philadelphia. It was also a pioneer in producing watches for navigation, aviation, and sports, collaborating with notable figures like Charles Lindbergh on the development of precision pilot watches.

In the 1920s, the era to which this watch belongs, Longines solidified its status as a reference in pocket watch manufacturing. Its movements were admired for their durability, precision, and beautiful finishing. Many of these timepieces, like this example, were housed in high-quality gold cases with meticulous attention to detail.

Today, antique Longines watches are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs of fine watchmaking. Owning one is not only a solid investment but also a connection to a legacy of craftsmanship that has stood the test of time with grace.