Longines 'Weems' US Naval Academy Pilots Watch, 1937

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Longines is one of the oldest continuously operating watch manufacturers in the world, with roots dating back to 1832. Over that immense period of time, the brand has crafted some truly incredible—and incredibly accurate—timepieces. In fact, it's one of the reasons Longines is the official timekeeper of the Kentucky Derby, where accuracy is paramount. The Longines “Weems” pilot’s watches are some of the most historically important aviation timepieces ever produced. Developed in collaboration with U.S. Navy Captain Philip Van Horn Weems—who trained Charles Lindbergh in celestial navigation—the "Weems" Longines introduced the revolutionary second-setting system, allowing pilots to synchronize with radio signals without halting the movement. This innovation, patented in 1935, became indispensable for accurate navigation in the golden age of flight. What makes this example even more remarkable is its U.S. Naval Academy-issued dial, bearing the crest “Ex Scientia Tridens.” Produced in Switzerland and distributed through Wittnauer, these Academy watches were delivered in extremely limited numbers, with only a handful surviving today. More than just a timekeeper, this Longines Weems is a tangible artifact of aviation history, naval tradition, and the pursuit of precision at a time when every second truly mattered. SPECS Stock # LONGWNA Brand Longines Style Pilots Watch Model 'Weems' US Naval Academy Serial 540XXXX Size Men's / Unisex Material Stainless Steel Dial Grey "Aged" Millimeters 33.5 Strap 2pc Canvas Strap CASE & BRACELET The early stainless steel or "staybrite" case is in excellent condition, especially for its age, and exhibits minimal signs of wear with only light evidence of being polished in the past. The characteristic rotating bezel features the locking mechanism with an additional crown at 4 o'clock, the enamel in the bezel was likely restored at some point, and all remains fully present, and the locking crown appears to be an early service replacement. The winding crown also appears to be an early service replacement, which is very common to find in these early military watch examples. The snap-on case back is in excellent condition, and the inside features a serial engraving that matches the movement serial. The watch comes supplied on a vintage 2pc OD green canvas strap. DIAL & HANDS The original dial signed with the US Naval Academy crest remains in remarkable vintage condition, with the original print remaining fully present and intact. Throughout the dial are small marks and minor scratches expected for the age of the watch, along with an overall darkening to the silver finish of the dial to a medium grey color. The original blued steel feuille hands are in excellent condition with nominal oxidation present. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is running, the previous service history is unknown.