Longines Ultra-Chron 8042 5 (1970)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This elegant Longines Ultra-Chron is a remarkable example of late 1960s and early 1970s horological innovation combined with distinctive design. The Ultra-Chron line was Longines' answer to the quest for precision, featuring high-beat movements that were guaranteed to be accurate to within a minute a month when new. This specific reference features a charming cushion-shaped case and a visually striking vertically brushed dial that catches the light beautifully. With its compact proportions and sophisticated aesthetic, it represents a golden era of Swiss watchmaking and serves as a perfect dress watch for the discerning collector. Brand: Longines Model: Ultra-Chron Reference Number: 8042 5 Serial Number: 50632535 Movement: Longines Caliber 433 Automatic Dial: Vertically brushed silver with applied indices Case Size: 31 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970 Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher testing indicates a rate of +30 to +45 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement for a vintage timepiece of this era operating within acceptable tolerances. Dial and Hands The dial is the standout feature of this timepiece, presenting a sophisticated silver tone with a distinct vertical brushed texture that resembles fine linen. It features applied silver baton indices with black inlays that provide excellent contrast and legibility. The date window is positioned at 3 o'clock within a trapezoidal frame. The applied Longines winged hourglass logo and the signature Ultra-Chron lightning bolt emblem are crisp and well-preserved. The slender stick hands also feature black inlays and appear original to the watch, complementing the overall minimalist aesthetic. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a cushion or "TV" shape design that was highly fashionable during the era. The case measures 31mm in diameter, but due to the square profile, it wears slightly larger on the wrist than circular watches of the same dimension. The case surfaces show honest signs of vintage wear with visible scratches and handling marks throughout, consistent with the grading of good vintage condition. The caseback displays the reference and serial numbers on the inside and shows surface wear on the exterior. The signed Longines crown is present and integrates well with the case profile. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Longines Caliber 433 automatic movement, a 17-jewel high-frequency mechanism designed for superior accuracy. The movement presents well visually with clean bridges and a gold-tone rotor. Timegrapher testing indicates a rate of +30 to +45 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement for a vintage timepiece of this era operating within acceptable tolerances. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring a lizard-grain pattern and contrasting white stitching. The strap is in good condition and complements the dressy nature of the cushion case, secured by a steel pin buckle. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved with no significant spotting or damage to the textured finish. The case shows uniform wear patterns typical of a watch that has been enjoyed over the decades, with scratches visible on the polished surfaces and caseback. The crystal is clear with only minor evidence of use. Dimensions The case measures 31 mm in width excluding the crown. The lug design and cushion shape give it a balanced presence suitable for a variety of wrist sizes, particularly those favoring a classic vintage proportion. Remarks The Longines Ultra-Chron is a significant model in the history of automatic watches, representing the brand's commitment to high-frequency precision. This particular example stands out due to its vertically brushed dial, which adds a layer of depth and texture rarely seen on standard matte or sunburst dials. It is a delightful piece of history that combines mechanical prowess with a distinctive 1970s design language. History Longines introduced the Ultra-Chron in 1967 to celebrate the company's 100th anniversary. It was positioned as a direct competitor to the growing electronic quartz market, utilizing a high-beat movement oscillating at 36,000 vibrations per hour to achieve chronometer-level accuracy. The Ultra-Chron remains one of the most respected high-beat calibers of the 20th century and signifies a high point in Longines' mechanical achievements before the quartz crisis fully took hold. / Second Vintage SKU: LON-LUX-0001