Longines - Ultra-Chron - No reserve price - 7885-4 - Men - 1970

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This Longines Ultra-Chron is a remarkable example of high-frequency horology from the golden era of mechanical watchmaking. Launched to celebrate the brand's centenary, the Ultra-Chron line was designed to challenge the accuracy of electronic watches with its fast-beating heart. This specific reference features the characteristic date window positioned between 4 and 5 o'clock, a design signature of the early models. With its clean lines, sophisticated silver dial, and robust stainless steel construction, this timepiece perfectly balances dressy elegance with technical prowess, making it a highly collectible piece for enthusiasts of significant movements. Brand: Longines Model: Ultra-Chron Reference Number: 7885-4 Serial Number: 50526370 Movement: Automatic Caliber 431 Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest and attractive aesthetic with visible signs of age on the dial and normal wear on the case, creating a distinct vintage character. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial features a sophisticated layout with applied baton hour markers containing black onyx-style inlays. The dial surface shows visible patina and aging spots consistent with its age, adding to its vintage charm. The applied winged hourglass logo and the applied Ultra-Chron "squiggle" logo are crisp and intact. The date window is distinctively located between 4 and 5 o'clock. The original baton-style hands match the indices with black inserts and show light aging. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures a classic 36mm and features straight, defined lugs. The case shows surface scratches and signs of wear commensurate with decades of use, retaining its original geometry without signs of over-polishing. The signed Longines crown is present. The screw-down caseback features the reference number and production markings on the interior, while the exterior displays the original manufacturer engravings which have softened slightly over time. Movement Powering this timepiece is the legendary Longines Caliber 431 automatic movement. This high-beat mechanism operates at 36,000 vibrations per hour, a technical feat designed for superior accuracy. The movement is clean and visually stunning, with the rotor signed "Longines Watch Co Swiss." Timegrapher testing shows the watch running between +29 and +34 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a classic black leather strap that complements the dial perfectly. It is secured by a gold-tone pin buckle featuring the Longines winged hourglass emblem. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the dial exhibits spotting and patina, and the case shows expected surface wear, the watch retains a strong and honest presence. It is a genuine example that has been worn and enjoyed, preserving the history of its era. Dimensions The case measures 36 mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a versatile fit that sits comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes. Remarks The Longines Ultra-Chron is often cited as one of the most important high-beat watches of the late 1960s and early 1970s. This example, with its specific reference and date placement, represents a fantastic entry point into collecting technically significant vintage timepieces. History Longines introduced the Ultra-Chron in 1967 specifically to compete with the rising accuracy of quartz technology. By increasing the beat rate of the balance wheel to 36,000 beats per hour (10 beats per second), Longines was able to guarantee exceptional precision. The Caliber 431 remains one of the most respected mass-produced high-frequency movements in horological history, solidifying Longines' reputation as a master of precision timing. / Second Vintage SKU: LON1MADE60000