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New arrival! My first "real" watch...

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#1 · (Edited)
What do you think of my new purchase?
It's my first real mechanic watch. It's a Longines Caliber 23z from around the 50's, serial 8582750.
Do you think I made a good buy?
What can you tell me about it? I think the dial needs a bit of TLC, but it's original as the faceted crystal.
 

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#2 ·
Looks a nice watch :)

There are a few Longines 'specialists' who'll be along to give you more details on the watch, and an accurate age too.

I'm sure I've have heard about the Longines - Wittnauer connection, and something along the lines of how these watches imported in parts and made up in the US to get around paying more import duty on complete watches, or something similar??????

I'd recommend getting it serviced by a local watchmaker, who will also be able to clean up the rest of the watch a little!!

Enjoy :)
 
#4 ·
I'm sure I've have heard about the Longines - Wittnauer connection, and something along the lines of how these watches imported in parts and made up in the US to get around paying more import duty on complete watches, or something similar??????
Correct - Longines established a relationship with Wittnauer and sent their movements to the US plant in NY to be installed in American made cases built to spec by Ross, Star, K & E, and a few others. There was a heavy import tax levied on precious metals so having them made in the USA avoided the majority of it. JLC and VC joined in shipping movements through Longines to the States to take advantage of this also, creating the LeCoultre brand.
 
#7 ·
It's worth is what you paid for it. Vintage watches should be enjoyed and not fretted about worth in my opinion. It's a wonderful watch and you should enjoy it as those before you did.
 
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