Longines Automatic 1586 1 (1975)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This exceptional Longines timepiece from the mid-1970s represents the pinnacle of the brand's in-house mechanical engineering capabilities just prior to the Quartz Crisis. Featuring a sharp tonneau-shaped case and the highly regarded Caliber L890.1, this watch combines high-frequency performance with an elegant aesthetic. It is a collector-grade example that showcases the sophistication of Swiss watchmaking, offering both historical significance and reliable daily wearability. Brand: Longines Model: Automatic Reference Number: 1586 1 Serial Number: 52805608 Movement: Automatic Caliber L890.1 Dial: Vertically brushed silver Case Size: 34 mm Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1975 Condition: Stunning vintage condition with sharp case lines and a pristine dial. Timegrapher results show outstanding performance at +1 to +3 seconds per day. Serviced movement. Dial and Hands The dial features a sophisticated vertically brushed silver finish that catches the light beautifully and remains in pristine condition. Applied baton indices with black central inlays provide excellent contrast and readability. The slender baton hands match the indices perfectly, and the original tritium lume plots are intact near the outer track. A framed date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, balancing the symmetrical layout. The text is crisp and sharp, signed "T Swiss Made T" at the bottom edge. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a distinctive 1970s tonneau or C-shape design that sits comfortably on the wrist. The case preservation is remarkable, retaining its original factory finishes with vertically brushed top surfaces and contrasting polished sides. The edges remain sharp and defined, suggesting the watch has been treated with great care. The crown is original and signed with the Longines logo. The crystal is clear and free from distracting marks. Movement Powering this timepiece is the celebrated Longines Caliber L890.1, a high-beat automatic movement operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour. This 25-jewel movement is famous among collectors for its twin-barrel architecture, designed to provide consistent torque and isochronism. The serviced movement is clean and visually stunning. Timegrapher testing confirms exceptional health, running at +1 to +3 seconds per day with strong amplitude, which indicates healthy movement and reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a high-quality black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching which complements the silver dial. It is secured by a stainless steel buckle that features the Longines winged hourglass logo, completing the period-correct look. Condition This timepiece is in stunning vintage condition. The dial is flawless to the naked eye, and the case retains its original geometry without signs of over-polishing. There are only very minor handling marks consistent with a watch of this age that has been sparingly worn. It presents as a fresh and well-preserved example of 1970s luxury. Dimensions The case measures 34 mm in diameter excluding the crown, which was a classic standard for men's dress watches of this era. The tonneau shape gives it a slightly larger wearing presence than a traditional round case. Remarks This Longines Automatic is a testament to the quality of the L890.1 caliber, which is often cited as one of the best automatic movements Longines ever produced. Finding one in such sharp, unpolished condition with a flawless dial is becoming increasingly difficult. It is a sophisticated choice for the collector who values technical merit alongside vintage design. History Longines has a storied history dating back to 1832 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. By the 1970s, the brand was producing some of its most technically advanced movements. The production year of 1975 places this watch at an interesting intersection of horological history, representing the high watermark of mechanical development before the industry shifted largely to quartz technology. The L890 caliber remains a favorite among purists for its innovative engineering and durability. / Second Vintage SKU: LON1U0IUYU000