Longines Mono-Pusher Stop-Second Chronograph (Cal. 12.68Z) 10k Gold Filled "American Airlines", 1949

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Most enthusiasts recognize the Longines cal. 13ZN as the cornerstone for early Longines movement making and for good reason, however, the cal. 12.86Z was produced by Longines around the same time and is also an incredible movement but it just doesn’t receive the same level of recognition. The cal. 12.86Z was based on the cal. 12L platform and is a mono-pusher stop-seconds flyback chronograph movement, similar to the 13Z, though the 12.86Z featured a central minute-counter hand in blued steel that worked in conjunction with the central chronograph hand. An operation that closely resembles an Omega Chronostop however Longines designed this movement far earlier in the 20th century. The cal. 12.67Z movements were also fitted into military-issued timepieces during the Second World War for pilots and aviators as a reliable source for tracking the timing of multiple events. Regardless of the prestige the movement encased in this Longines holds, the story of the watch is engraved into the case back. This 10k Gold-filled Longines Cal. 12.68Z is engraved with the American Airlines logo of the same era in which it was produced, likely awarded as a gift to pilots or staff alike for their service to the company. SPECS Stock # LNGFCHSS1268Z-2 Brand Longines Style Flyback Stop-Seconds Chronograph Model Cal. 12.68Z Serial 78XXXXX Size Men's Material 10K Gold Filled Dial Aged Silver W/ Breguet Numerals Millimeters 31 Strap 2pc Leather Strap CASE & BRACELET The 10k gold-filled case is in excellent and well-preserved condition, exhibiting honest signs of light signs of previous use and minimal signs of previous polishing. The case retains its original unsigned crown and mono-pusher. The case back is engraved with the American Airlines logo, which remains in exceptional condition. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap. DIAL & HANDS The original silver dial with applied Breguet numeral and red accent at 12 o'clock shows appropriate age throughout, showing gentle spotting and wear, with a handsome dial warmth. The hands all remain original to the watch and in excellent condition. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is functioning perfectly and keeping time, previous service history is unknown.