Introduction
Today best known for their competitively priced and well-built offerings, Longines’ history as one of horology’s most advanced watchmakers usually escapes most collectors. Built upon an extensive archive of incredible chronographs and dress watches, this reputation would be nothing compared to what it is now if it wasn’t for the movement in the Flyback Chronograph that we have here, the cal. 13ZN. Famously regarded as one of the finest chronograph movements ever produced, the manual-wind cal. 13ZN was launched in 1936 as one of Longines’ most advanced movements and the first flyback chronograph movement to be fitted within a wristwatch. Offered over several decades with different subvariants depending on dial layouts and the number of pushers used to operate it, the cal. 13ZN is fabulously collectible, given that not all examples are the same. Thanks to its impeccable level of craftsmanship, stunning architecture, and unparalleled level of ingenuity, the cal. 13ZN is as famous today as it was ahead of its time in the 1930s. Unrivaled for two decades as the only flyback chronograph movement on the market, the cal. 13ZN enabled Longines to become one of the most revered watchmakers within the aviation industry, given how practical the cal. 13ZN’s flyback function was. Offered here is a 36mm 18kt gold Flyback Chronograph fitted with the cal. 13ZN that sports a beautifully ages white dial with blued steel hands and black dial inscriptions, which combine to create a stunning aesthetic, fitting for the iconic movement housed within its round stepped case.
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Grade
V 7.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Longines
Dimensions
36mm
Model
13ZN Pulsations Chronograph
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 13ZN
Reference
5090
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1940s
Condition
Good
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
White

THE DIAL
Fitted with an aged white pulsations dial, this 13ZN features Arabic numerals, along with blued steel hands that make it supremely legible. Additionally, it also boasts a pulsations scale that adds a unique twist to its design and makes it exceptionally rare.

THE MOVEMENT
Arguably Longines' most iconic movement, the cal. 13ZN was considerably ahead of its time due to its complex flyback function, accuracy, and stunning architecture.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in good overall condition. Case is well worn, with soft lugs and case. The caseback has some dents visible on the outer surface as seen in the images. The dial is in fair condition. The surface is aged and discolored, and the pulsation track is faded. Watch comes on a generic strap and buckle.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
A truly legendary timepiece that solidified Longines' place as one of the finest chronograph manufacturers on the market, this is perhaps one of Longines' most important models.