1945 Longines 13ZN Doppio Linguetta Chronograph - Longines Archives and Service (Ref. 5415)

History and Significance

Longines occupies an extraordinary position in the history of chronograph watchmaking, particularly during the first half of the twentieth century. Long before mechanical chronographs became fashionable objects of collecting, the manufacturer was developing sophisticated movements intended for precise timing in aviation, sporting events, and scientific applications. By the 1930s, Longines had established a reputation for producing some of the finest wristwatch chronograph movements of the period, combining technical innovation with exceptionally thoughtful mechanical construction. Among these achievements, the caliber 13ZN stands as one of the most important. Introduced in 1936, the movement would become a defining accomplishment in the history of Longines and one of the most respected vintage chronograph calibers ever produced.

The caliber 13ZN was developed during a period when chronograph manufacturers were competing to improve both mechanical performance and operational convenience. Its sophisticated architecture incorporated a column-wheel-controlled chronograph mechanism and, in many configurations, an integrated flyback function that allowed the chronograph to be reset and restarted without first being stopped. This capability was particularly useful in aviation, where timing consecutive intervals quickly could be essential. Beyond its functional achievements, the movement became admired for its beautifully organized construction, carefully finished components, and mechanical ingenuity. Decades after production ended, the 13ZN remains a benchmark against which many vintage chronograph movements are judged.

The reference 5415 represents an especially interesting expression of this celebrated movement. Produced in 1945, the watch belongs to the final years of the Second World War, when large stainless steel chronographs were still relatively uncommon. Its substantial 38mm case would have been considered particularly generous for the period, especially when compared with the smaller dress watches that dominated civilian wristwatch production. The broad bezel, elongated lugs, and prominent chronograph pushers create a purposeful appearance that feels remarkably contemporary despite the watch's age. The case is also associated with the Italian collecting term Doppio Linguetta, or double tongue, a designation that has become familiar among enthusiasts of unusual vintage Longines chronograph cases.

The dial reflects the restrained functional design associated with the finest chronographs of the 1940s. A silver-toned surface provides the foundation for two subsidiary registers, Arabic hour numerals, and finely printed timing scales. Blued hands introduce a subtle contrast against the aged dial, while the absence of radium luminous material gives the watch a particularly clean and classical appearance. Over eight decades, the dial has developed visible aging and a warm cream-colored tone, creating a character that is entirely consistent with the watch's history. Rather than obscuring the original design, these changes emphasize the age and individuality of the example.

Perhaps the most significant characteristic of this reference 5415 is the preservation of its stainless steel case. The watch remains untouched and unpolished, retaining the sharp bezel and well-defined lugs that are so important when evaluating early chronographs. Original case geometry is particularly valuable on watches from this period, as decades of polishing can significantly alter the proportions and appearance of their relatively complex cases. The inclusion of Longines archive documentation provides an additional connection to the manufacturer's historical records, while recent service documents and a service warranty card offer valuable information about its more recent mechanical care. Together, these details make the watch a particularly compelling example of one of the most celebrated chronograph movements of the twentieth century.

Writer’s Thoughts

The caliber 13ZN has earned an extraordinary reputation among vintage chronograph collectors, but the movement alone is not what makes this particular Longines so appealing. The combination of the celebrated movement, substantial 38mm case, and remarkable preservation makes the reference 5415 especially compelling. The untouched, unpolished case retains a beautifully sharp bezel and well-defined lugs, details that are increasingly difficult to find on chronographs approaching eighty years of age. The proportions remain remarkably relevant today, while the original case geometry preserves the unmistakable character of a 1940s chronograph.

The dial has developed a wonderful warm patina, with scattered aging and blued hands that complement the sharply preserved stainless steel case. The absence of radium luminous material gives the dial a particularly clean appearance, allowing the classical chronograph layout to remain the focus. Longines archive papers add valuable historical context, while recent service documentation and a warranty card provide reassurance regarding mechanical maintenance. With its exceptional case preservation, important movement, and supporting documentation, this is a particularly attractive example of one of Longines' most celebrated vintage chronographs.

Our Promise

Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity.

Brand: Longines

Model: 13ZN Doppio Linguetta Chronograph

Reference: 5415

Year: 1945

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Case Size: 38mm

Dial: Aged Silver Dial with Arabic Numerals, Two Chronograph Registers, and No Radium Luminous Material

Movement: Longines Caliber 13ZN, Manual-Winding Chronograph

Strap/Buckle: Suede Leather Strap

Buckle/Clasp: Pin Buckle

Contents: Watch, Longines Archive Papers, Recent Service Documents, and Service Warranty Card

Case: Untouched and unpolished stainless steel case remains in exceptional vintage condition with a sharp bezel, well-defined lugs, and preserved original geometry. Light surface wear is consistent with age.

Dial: Original silver-toned dial has developed visible aging and warm patina throughout. The printing and Arabic numerals remain legible, with the natural surface changes reflecting the watch's age.

Hands: Blued hands remain in good vintage condition with attractive color and light aging consistent with the period.

Crystal: Crystal remains in good vintage condition with light surface wear.

Strap/Buckle: Suede leather strap remains in good condition with light signs of wear.

Buckle/Clasp: Pin buckle remains in good condition with normal surface wear.