Longeau Vintage Field Watch
Field Watch · Longeau, a historical Swiss watch brand/assembler utilizing outsourced Swiss mechanical movements from the mid-century era
Period: Vintage (1940s-1950s) Tool Watch Era
Type
Field Watch
Brand
Longeau, a historical Swiss watch brand/assembler utilizing outsourced Swiss mechanical movements from the mid-century era
Movement
Manual-wind mechanical movement, likely a Swiss ebauche caliber (such as AS or ETA) operating at 18,000 vph with approximately 36 to 40 hours of power reserve
Dimensions
Case diameter: 33-35mm, case thickness: 10mm, lug-to-lug: 41mm, lug width: 18mm
Description
This charming vintage Longeau timepiece embodies the quintessential utilitarian aesthetic of mid-century military and field watches. Featuring a classic glossy black dial paired with highly legible Arabic numerals and a traditional small seconds subdial at six o'clock, it projects an authentic understated elegance. Housed in a modest stainless steel case with downward sloping lugs, it sits comfortably on the wrist while offering a heavy dose of historical character.
Key Features
High-contrast black gilt-style dial layout, painted luminous Arabic numerals, distinct syringe handset, and a sub-seconds register at 6 o'clock
Dial Description
Glossy black dial with vintage painted Arabic numerals, outer minute/seconds track, luminous syringe hands, and a small seconds subdial positioned at the 6 o'clock mark
Case Material
Stainless steel case with polished bezel and brushed sides
Crystal Type
Domed acrylic or plexiglass crystal showing slight age-appropriate surface wear
Bezel Details
Fixed smooth polished steel bezel characteristic of mid-century dress and field watches
Crown & Pushers
Small unsigned push-pull onion or fluted crown located at the 3 o'clock position
Bracelet or Strap
Currently head-only, designed to be paired with an 18mm vintage leather strap or NATO strap
Caseback Details
Solid stainless steel screw-down or snap-on case back, typically featuring basic reference or metal composition markings inside
Movement Type
Manual-wind mechanical movement, likely a Swiss ebauche caliber (such as AS or ETA) operating at 18,000 vph with approximately 36 to 40 hours of power reserve
Water Resistance
None to negligible. Historic vintage watch not rated for water resistance; avoid all contact with water
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made, manufactured in Switzerland utilizing a traditional Swiss ebauche movement
Age Estimate
Circa 1940s to 1950s
Cultural Significance
Represents the accessible everyday timekeeping tools of the mid-20th century, serving as a testament to the democratization of mechanical watches before the rise of digital and quartz technology.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good vintage condition. The case shows minor surface scratches and wear consistent with age. The black dial remains well-preserved with intact text and patinated luminous material. The crystal has light scuffs that can be easily buffed out.
Value Estimate
Estimated secondary market value ranges between $150 and $400 USD depending on the internal movement condition and service history
Care & Maintenance
Keep away from water and moisture due to the vintage nature and likely degraded gaskets. Manual winding should be done gently until resistance is felt. Professional servicing is recommended every 3-5 years to preserve the vintage movement components.
Similar Watches
Vintage military-issued or civilian field watches from brands like Omega, Longines, Titus, and Bulova from the same era
Interesting Facts
Brands like Longeau were part of a vast ecosystem of independent Swiss watch assemblers during the mid-20th century, supplying reliable timepieces to regional markets prior to the Quartz Crisis.