This Longines Weems model was one of a limited edition of just 3,000 made. Model reference L2.608.4.73.2
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
While we don’t have box and papers for this watch, we have seen others for sale with papers that all seem to be from 1996 or 1997.
CONDITION
Philip Van Horn Weems invented better ways for pilots and navigators to record the time while flying, and in 1937 he invented the rotating bezel on watches. Because using a bezel allowed the pilot to record the time accurately, the Weems watches also had a lock on the bezel to make sure it doesn’t move (a divers bezel rotates one way, so if the bezel gets knocked you come up early and don’t run out of air.) The most famous user of a Longines Weems watch was Charles Lindbergh when he became the first person to solo fly across the Atlantic. While brands like Jaeger-LeCoultre and Omega also made watches with Weems bezels, Longines are the brand most associated with this feature. Early watches are rare, expensive and with the majority in 27.5mm too small for most modern men. So Longines scaled up the design, fitted a modern movement with automatic winding and made a limited edition, which is what we have here.
The styling is quite true to the original, and the case a nice wearable size. The movement is an ETA 2892A2, rebranded for Longines as an L619 and finished nicely as it has to be seeing as it is visible via the exhibition case back. The bezel rotates smoothly in both directions, and that Weems lock at 2 works perfectly. This choice of movement allows quite a slim stainless steel case, which is fitted with a sapphire crystal. There are some marks on the side of the top left lug, otherwise it is good. The dial is excellent, as are the blued hands. The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour if preferred.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
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SIZE
Width with crown 38.6 mm
Width without crown 35.9 mm
Between lugs 20 mm
Lug to lug length 42.0 mm
Case Thickness 10.4 mm
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.