Longines Watch Company – Brief History
Founded: 1832
Founder: Auguste Agassiz
Location: Saint-Imier, Switzerland
Longines was founded by Auguste Agassiz in 1832. By the 1860s, under his nephew Ernest Francillon, the company consolidated production into a single factory in an area called “Les Longines” (meaning “long meadows”), giving the brand its name.
Innovations:
- 1867: Longines produced its first in-house movement, the 20A, which won an award at the Universal Exhibition in Paris.
- 1889: Longines registered its winged hourglass logo.
- Early 1900s: The brand gained a strong reputation for precision, often winning chronometer competitions.
- 1927: Charles Lindbergh, after his historic transatlantic flight, collaborated with Longines to design the Hour Angle Watch, aiding pilots in celestial navigation.
Legacy:
Longines is renowned for its blend of precision, classic design, and innovation, with a continuous production history of nearly 200 years. Its watches are popular among both collectors and those seeking timeless Swiss craftsmanship.
Service and Repair of this Longines Men’s Watch
The watch shown on the bench had been well cared for and service regularly. It did not exhibit much wear and ran well after service. Please see my home page for information on repair of your vintage watch.
