Following the rise in popularity of recreational diving in the 1950 and 1960s, a trend appeared in watchmaking with the rise of so-called ‘Skin divers’ that featured improved water resistance compared to regular timepieces, but maintained a somewhat casual aesthetic compared to out-and-out dive watches. In a bid to innovate on the humble Skin Diver, Longines launched the Super Compressor ref. 7042 in 1958 with a dive bezel, plenty of luminescence, and its eponymous Super Compressor case. Patented by Ervin Piquerez SA (EPSA) in 1956, the Super Compressor case works by using the water pressure to press and seal the caseback against the case of the watch. Following the ref. 7042, Longines launched the ref. 7150, which is what we have here, in 1961 and produced it only until 1962. Featuring some upgrades on its predecessor, the ref. 7150 is powered by the automatic cal. 290 movement and boasts 100m more of water resistance, with it boasting a rather impressive 200m of water resistance, more than adequate even by today’s standards. With its dual-crown system and internal rotating bezel, the Super Compressor is a harmonious marriage between style and utility, earning its position as an icon of its category.

Watch is in overall very good condition. Case shows signs of polishing in the past, and there are some minor superficial scratches and wear visible. The dial is in excellent condition, with a few slightly abraided luminous plots. The minute hand is also cracked as shown in the images.

An iconic timepiece within Longines' ranks, the Super Compressor is still produced by Longines to this day, and for very good reason. With its stylish design and impressive utility, it has proven to be quite the timeless piece of horological engineering; evidenced by the fact collectors love it so much.