Longines

• cal. 37.9N manual winding nickel lever movement, 16 jewels, hinged cuvette • outer white enamel chapter ring with Breguet numerals, sweep center seconds, rotating central dial calibrated for 60 seconds • large winding crown, secondary crown for inner dial adjustment, hinged back • case, dial and movement signed, cuvette numbered, case further signed by retailer

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, however it may require service soon. The dial shows no visible hairlines, though the central portion rotates somewhat unevenly. The case shows surface scuffs throughout.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

The present lot is being offered on behalf of a descendant of the original owner, who was a pilot in World War II.

Longines confirms production of this piece and sale to Wittnauer on October 13th, 1944. Wittnauer was the agent for Longines in America starting in 1875.

This model is named after Lieutenant Philip Van Horn Weems, a naval commander born in Tenessee in 1889. During his career serving his country at sea, he was the inventor of several navigational innovations. The present model features Weems' second setting system, with an inner rotating dial to improve accuracy in timing and synchronicity, vital for aviation and on seafaring expeditions.

For further reading on Longines pilot's wristwatches, see Marozzi, D and Toselli, G., Longines, pp. 66-90.