Longines Chronograph 4974 Cal. 13ZN

This rare Longines Ref. 4974 powered by the legendary caliber 13ZN ranks among the most sought-after chronographs of the early 1940s. The 13ZN enjoys an iconic status among collectors and is still regarded today as one of the finest manually wound chronograph movements ever produced — technically brilliant, intricately engineered and manufactured in comparatively limited numbers. Well-preserved examples such as this are therefore exceptionally rare.

According to the Extract from the Archives, the present watch was manufactured on April 25, 1942, and delivered to Oestersezer, Longines agent for Italy at the time. This clearly documented provenance not only adds historical depth, but also firmly places the watch within the golden era of classical Swiss chronograph production.

The silver two-tone dial captivates with its remarkable complexity and perfect balance. The combination of a telemeter scale, tachymeter scale and two integrated sub-dials gives the watch a distinctly instrument-like character. The blued steel hands add elegant contrast while ensuring excellent legibility. The evenly developed patina, formed over decades, underscores the authentic vintage character and brings every detail to life.

The stainless steel case is preserved in great condition. With a diameter of 37.5 mm, it was exceptionally large for its era and offers an impressive presence on the wrist today. Particularly characteristic is the stepped case construction, which adds depth and gives the chronograph a bold, powerful appearance.

Inside beats the celebrated Longines caliber 13ZN, one of the most highly regarded manually wound chronograph movements ever produced. The 13ZN is a flyback chronograph, allowing the chronograph to be reset to zero and restarted instantly with a single push while running — a technically sophisticated feature originally developed for professional use. The column-wheel control, exceptionally fine finishing and precise chronograph operation made this in-house caliber legendary already in its own time — and continue to make it one of the most coveted movements among discerning collectors today.

This Longines Ref. 4974 combines technical excellence, documented history and an unmistakable look. A true highlight — and a chronograph that deserves a special place in any serious collection.

Condition Description
Dial: even, authentic patina – two-tone dial with outer and inner surfaces that appear alternately lighter or darker depending on light and viewing angle – signed “Longines Antimagnetique” – red telemeter scale, black tachymeter scale.

Case: 37.5 mm stainless steel stepped case in great condition – light signs of wear – crisp lines – intact engraving of the order number on the screw-down caseback.

Movement: manually wound Longines caliber 13ZN – flyback chronograph – timegrapher results: rate: −19 s/day, amplitude: 350, beat error: 1.1.

Serial number: 6210xxx

Int.Exe.: 5867336