Longines Tre Tacche 5182 Black Dial

This exceptional 1940s Longines Tre Tacche combines one of the most desirable case designs of its era with a rare black dial and is accompanied by an official Extract from the Archives as well as an outstanding Gay-Frères bracelet.

Longines stands among the most versatile and respected watchmakers of the 20th century, and pieces from this period continue to captivate collectors with their timeless design and increasing rarity. The present Tre Tacche belongs to one of the most iconic lines of the brand.

The rare black dial impresses with finely executed sector divisions, harmoniously designed numerals and the elegantly integrated small seconds at 6 o’clock – a composition of remarkable balance. The subtle and authentic patina that has developed over the decades adds depth and further enhances the watch’s unmistakable vintage character.

The stainless steel case features the characteristic screw-down case back with three notches, which gave the model its name “Tre Tacche”. For its time, this construction was particularly robust and contributed to improved water resistance – a significant step in the development of early wristwatches. With a diameter of 35 mm, the watch offers classic proportions, yet wears surprisingly well thanks to the balanced relationship between case and dial.

Inside, the watch is powered by the reliable manual-wind Longines caliber 12.68Z, known for its quality and durability.

According to the Extract from the Archives, this watch was invoiced on March 24, 1943, to Ostersetzer, an official Longines agent in Italy at the time – a charming historical detail that further underlines the authenticity of this example.

The watch is completed by an exceptional Gay-Frères ladder bracelet from the same era. It is lightweight, very comfortable on the wrist and complements the watch perfectly – authentic, elegant and with just the right amount of vintage charm.

Condition report
Dial: rare, original black dial – even, authentic patina – chapter ring – signed “Longines”.

Case: 35 mm stainless steel case – natural signs of wear – stepped bezel – full profile, intact lugs – batch number on the case back matches the number between the lugs – screw-down “Tre Tacche” case back.

Movement: manual-wind Longines caliber 12.68Z, running reliably – timegrapher results: rate: -16s/day, amplitude: 200, beat error: 3.0.

Bracelet: rare, original Gay-Frères ladder bracelet from the 1940s – adjustable length.

Serial number: 6415xxx

Int.Exe.: 30230