177 Longines Impressive and Historically Important Skin Diver Chronograph Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 7981–1, Black and Silver tachymetric Scale Dial, Rotating Bezel, Original Box, Invoice, Guarantee and Tag

Estimate: € 12,000 –⁠ 24,000

Model: Chronograph
Material: Stainless Steel
Reference N°: 2221042
Year: 1967
Case N°: T907
Caliber: 30 CH
Movement type: Manual
Movement N°: 13939340
Bracelet: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement
Accessories: Box, invoice, tag and guarantee
Literature: This specific watch is published in the LONGINES LEGENDARY WATCHES book on pages 544–545

The privileged sector to which Longines has dedicated most of its efforts has been motor racing. In fact, there are many models with the complication of the chronograph yet, as witnessed in the lot number 74, the Swiss brand has also dedicated itself to the creation of specific watches for the marine environment (Legend Diver ref. 7594-2). But there is another model created by Longines that incorporates features that make it perfect for the three environments of earth, sea and air. This is the iconic Skin Diver reference 7981-3 30CH. This specific model presents the tachymetric scale inside the dial for motor racing and a rotating bezel that can be used by divers and also aviators (given its ability to indicate a second time zone). The lot offered here is a splendid specimen of Skin Diver very well preserved with a 40 mm diameter steel case, a screw back and bracelet. The red ring graduated at 60 minutes for diving and provided with the dual time zone is perfectly intact with still its live and fresh garnet color. This watch is also known with the name of Big Eye and the reason of this nickname it will certainly not have escaped the attention of an expert given the decidedly larger size of the 30-minute counter than that of continuous seconds. Equipped with the 30Ch movement (the latest produced fully in-house by Longines) this special wristwatch presents a black matte dial with tritium, a totally collectible piece to not be missed.

With the Longines Extract from the Archives confirming case, movement, production and subsequent sale on 8 February 1968 to the company Longines-Wittnauer Watch Co., which was at that time the Longines agent for the USA.