130 - Longines - Observatory Chronometer

Longines - Observatory Chronometer (*) A fine, heavy and large observatory chronometer in a wooden case Movm. No. 6782561, Cal. 26.99, Dimensions 68 mm, circa 1944, Weight 251 g, Origin Schweiz, Extract from the archives Case: Base metal, gilt, tiered, glazed movement. Dial: Enamel. Movm.: Bridge movement with center bridge, lever escapement, Guillaume gold screw compensation balance. Calibre?26.99 exists in one version as a bridge movement and in another with a central bridge, and it is reserved exclusively for use in the observatory competitions. While obtaining a coveted bulletin was initially pursued by LONGINES with a primarily commercial motivation, the company’s attitude toward the competitions shifted in the early 1920s toward a performance- driven participation, aiming for prizes and records that could strengthen the marketing of its commercial products. As a result, Calibre?26.99 remained exclusively within the regulation department, which submitted it to the observatory trials. Because of the larger dimensions of the movement, both the Guillaume balance and the mainspring barrel were enlarged accordingly. However, submissions in Neuchâtel are limited and focus mainly on the years 1924 and 1925. In Geneva, the calibre is entered until 1929. Source: ChronoHype Magazin No. 16 Case: very good. Dial: very good. Movm.: very good, capable of running, cleaning recommended.