Longines Trench Watch, Enamel Dial, Silver Borgel Case, Extract of Archive, 1913

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

A rare 1913 Longines silver-cased trench watch with a beautiful enamel dial in a Borgel case, sold with an extract of archive for provenance Longines, founded in 1832, is one of Switzerland’s oldest watchmakers, known for precision and elegant design. During World War I, the brand produced trench watches that helped transition timekeeping from pocket to wrist. These early wristwatches featured wire lugs, luminous dials, and protective cases, designed for practicality in combat conditions. Longines trench watches combined reliability with refinement, and today they are valued as important milestones in both military history and the evolution of the modern wristwatch. What's on Offer This 1913 Longines trench watch is a remarkable and historically important piece, dating to the very early days of wristwatches. Housed in a Silver Borgel case—renowned for its innovative waterproof design—it represents a key moment in the transition from pocket watches to wrist-worn timepieces. The white enamel dial is beautifully preserved, featuring bold Roman numerals and a subsidiary seconds display, with the distinctive red XII adding a subtle yet striking detail. Its clean layout and classic styling reflect the practical needs of the era while maintaining an elegant aesthetic. The hallmarked silver case shows minimal but honest signs of age, consistent with over a century of history, and is paired with a leather bund strap that complements its military-inspired origins. On the wrist, it offers a unique presence—light, refined, and deeply rooted in watchmaking heritage. Backed by an extract of archive confirming its 1913 invoicing, this is a rare opportunity to own a genuine piece of early Longines history—an exceptional collector’s watch with true provenance.