Longines 6B/152 Military Issue - Rare Vintage RAF Pilots Watch, Serviced

Description: Longines 6B/159 RAF Pilots Wristwatch c.1942. These beautiful wristwatches were issued to RAF navigators and pilots during the Second World War. Recently inspected and tested by a master horologist with no issues to report in superb order keeping accurate time, ready to enjoy! The fact that this particular watch retains its British military markings on the case back is a remarkable feature. It's quite rare to find watches from that era with the original markings still intact, as many were polished away during the 1950s and 1960s to remove any reminders of the war. This practice of removing military markings was common during that time, as people sought to move on from the difficult memories associated with the conflict. As a result, watches like this one, which have preserved their original markings, are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their historical significance. RAF watches from this period were supplied by several prestigious watch manufacturers including Omega, Jaeger Le-Coultre and Longines. All these watches followed a standard specification, which included a white dial with black Arabic numerals, sweep centre seconds and blued steel non-luminous hands. These watches are commonly referred to by their RAF stores reference number 6B/159. This RAF stores reference refers to aircraft navigation equipment. The Longines 6B/159 watch for sale was produced around 1942 at the heart of WW2. The watch would have been shipped to Arthur Baume, the Longines dealer in London before being forwarded to the RAF for active service. The last watch of its kind is recorded as being delivered to Baume in London on 31 May 1943. Happily, the Longines 6B/159 watch is in wonderful original condition and is extremely well preserved. Due to the increasing popularity and appreciation of these watches, Longines has recently produced a homage watch, which is based upon their illustrious wartime 6B/159. Naturally, this has further enhanced the interest and demand for good original examples, such as the one listed for sale. The Longines 6B/159 for sale represents a fantastic opportunity to acquire an incredible piece of horological and military history. The Dial: Signed Longines. Light silvered dial with unique Arabic numerals featuring 1/5th of scale outer chapter ring. Spade and whip steel blue hand set with a centre sweep steel seconds hand. Dial has marks commensurate with age and wear. Please observe photos. Original Movement: 16 jewel manual wind movement - Signed Longines Swiss Made 16 Jewels serial numbered 647**** dating to 1942 on the Longines date register. In any field, be it vintage wristwatches, period motorcars or antique fishing reels, there are definite classics that are universally acknowledged to be key units that are of the utmost historical significance. Albeit the movement in this watch is calibre 68N a key unit. This movement has been fully inspected and tested by a Swiss specialist watchmaker keeping accurate time and running perfectly. Original Case: Very clean with a polished finish. Sharp lugs in solid condition. Case is 32mm without the crown, 34mm with the crown and a generous 42mm including the elongated down turn lugs. Measures 16mm between the lugs. Case has surface scratches associated with steel commensurate with everyday wear and age. Overall good solid condition for age. Original Case Back Cover Inner: Signed Acier INox 57 Longines 22253 257. Fits flush with case. In good condition. Original Case Back Cover Outer: British military markings AM 6B/159 9958/42. Steel case cover fits flush. Has surface scratches commensurate with age and wear. In overall solid condition with plenty of depth. The Original Tooth Crown/Winder: Crown sets/winds smoothly. Overall good condition for age. Original Crystal: Domed plexiglass. Has surface scratches commensurate with age and wear not noticeable to the naked eye only under magnification. Strap/Buckle: Has been fitted with a new unauthentic aftermarket black Kanvas NATO style strap and steel gold plated buckle. *Please observe photographs carefully as they form part of the description* Please note this Longines is over 80 years old. Shipping DHL insured registered post World wide, buyer responsible for any taxes or duties due which may delay or hold up your shipment at destination port.

Price: 1500 GBP

Location: Birmingham

End Time: 2024-11-20T23:32:09.000Z

Shipping Cost: 64.45 GBP