This is a lovely antique watch with superb quality all round
and a fascinating history behind it. In the early 20th Century
Longines watches were imported into the UK via Baume & Co, part of what
later became Baume & Mercier. They imported Longines movements and then case
them using British manufacturers. This is cased by DENNISON, one of the UK’s
finest who also made for Rolex among other top brands.
This is pretty much in ORIGINAL CONDITION including the original
strap but barring the crown/stem. The stem is not engaging the mechanism or the
hands AND REQUIRES ATTENTION/SERVICE/REPAIR/REPLACEMENT.
The balance spins freely and the movement overall looks in
really nice condition. This is the LONGINES 12.92 calibre and is a lovely
quality thing with a gilt finish. It will be well worth the fix. The dial is in
excellent condition as far as I can see and the silver case has not been
touched or cleaned in decades.
Dial
Military style dial with RED 12 and subsidiary register at
the bottom. Lovely Blue steel SPADE/WHIP hands. The dial looks clean and free
form cracks or chips.
Case
Gorgeous cushion case in solid silver. Assayed in
Birmingham in 1931 and engraved on the back for December 1932. This personal
engraving gives an extra bit of character and history to the piece. In 1931 the
world was experiencing a banking crisis and Al Capone was finally sent to
prison for tax evasion. The back says ?To Daddy, from Jean Dec 1932.?
Movement
This is the Longines 12.92 calibre. It is also stamped for
Baume &Co, 15 Jewels, Swiss Made. The balance spins freely and it looks in excellent
condition. However the stem is not engaging the mechanism and I can?t say
whether it works or not. I don?t know if it?s the wrong stem or there?s another
issue. REQUIRES ATTENTION/SERVICE/REPAIR and is sold on this basis only.
It measures : 31mms without
the crown
Condition : original condition overall and has not been cleaned in any way. The strap looks original ? the lower part is well worn and will need to be replaced eventually. The crystal also looks original and has scratches and a small crack near the 3 position. PLEASE VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS FOR CLOSER GUIDE TO CONDITION.