Longines History - Serial Numbers & Production Years Lookup
Longines Watch Company: History, Serial Numbers & Year of Production
Longines Serial Number Lookup Tool
For quick access to checking your Longines serial number, visit here!
Please check the table below for a full list of Longines Serial Numbers & Production Dates.
Brief History of Longines Watches
Founded in 1832 by Auguste Agassiz, Longines has been a pioneer in Swiss watchmaking for nearly two centuries. Initially operating through the traditional etablissage system, the brand evolved significantly under Ernest Francillon, who centralized production in a factory on the "Les Longines" property—giving the company its iconic name.
The Longines "Winged Hourglass" logo, first registered
in 1880, is the oldest trademark still in use in the watch industry today. By the early 1900s, Longines had become internationally recognized, producing precision timepieces renowned for quality and innovation.
Longines made significant advances in chronograph technology, developing timing devices used in major sporting events, including gymnastics and equestrian competitions. Their aviator watches gained fame through associations with Charles Lindbergh, who collaborated on a special pilot's watch for air navigation, and Amelia Earhart, who famously wore Longines on her pioneering flights.
Today, Longines is part of the prestigious Swatch Group, continuing to produce vintage-inspired and modern automatic watches that balance heritage with innovation. Vintage Longines watches remain highly collectible due to their timeless designs and reliable movements.
Longines Serial Numbers & Production Dates
Determining the production year of your Longines watch is best done using the serial number located on the movement inside the case, not the caseback. Use the table below as a guide to approximate your watch’s manufacturing year.
| Year | Serial Number |
|---|---|
| 1867 | 1 |
| 1870 | 20,000 |
| 1875 | 100,000 |
| 1882 | 250,000 |
| 1888 | 500,000 |
| 1893 | 750,000 |
| 1899 | 1,000,000 |
| Year | Serial Number |
|---|---|
| 1901 | 1,250,000 |
| 1904 | 1,500,000 |
| 1905 | 1,750,000 |
| 1907 | 2,000,000 |
| 1909 | 2,250,000 |
| 1911 | 2,500,000 |
| 1912 | 2,750,000 |
| Year | Serial Number |
|---|---|
| 1913 | 3,000,000 |
| 1915 | 3,250,000 |
| 1917 | 3,500,000 |
| 1919 | 3,750,000 |
| 1922 | 4,000,000 |
| 1925 | 4,250,000 |
| 1926 | 4,500,000 |
| Year | Serial Number |
|---|---|
| 1928 | 4,750,000 |
| 1929 | 5,000,000 |
| 1934 | 5,250,000 |
| 1937 | 5,500,000 |
| 1938 | 5,750,000 |
| 1940 | 6,000,000 |
| 1945 | 7,000,000 |
| Year | Serial Number |
|---|---|
| 1950 | 8,000,000 |
| 1953 | 9,000,000 |
| 1956 | 10,000,000 |
| 1959 | 11,000,000 |
| 1962 | 12,000,000 |
| 1966 | 13,000,000 |
| 1967 | 14,000,000 |
| Year | Serial Number |
|---|---|
| 1969 | 15,000,000 |
Why Collect Vintage Longines Watches?
Vintage Longines watches hold strong appeal due to their blend of history, craftsmanship, and design. Collectors prize Longines for:
- Rich Heritage: Over 190 years of watchmaking legacy
- Innovative Movements: Precision calibers and pioneering chronographs
- Timeless Designs: Classic styles that have endured changing trends
- Historical Significance: Connection to aviation, sports, and exploration
- Excellent Value: Generally more affordable than comparable Swiss brands while maintaining quality
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Longines Watches
Q: Where can I find the serial number on my Longines watch?
A: The serial number is engraved on the movement (inside the watch), not the case back. Opening the watch carefully or having a professional do it is the best way to locate it.
Q: How accurate is the Longines serial number for dating my watch?
A: The serial number on the movement is the most reliable method to estimate the production year. Case numbers are less reliable due to possible replacements.
Q: Can I identify my Longines watch model by its serial number?
A: The serial number primarily indicates the production date, but combined with movement caliber and case style, it helps identify the exact model.
Q: Where can I buy authentic vintage Longines watches?
A: Experts Watches offers a curated selection of authentic vintage Longines timepieces. Browse our collection here.
Shop Longines Watches at Experts Watches
Explore our handpicked collection of genuine vintage Longines watches, featuring automatic, chronograph, and dress styles. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to vintage Swiss watches, our experts provide trusted guidance to help you find the perfect Longines.
Looking to sell or trade your watch? Contact Experts Watches for professional appraisals and fair offers.
Browse our curated selection at expertswatches.com to find your next vintage or preowned Longines watches, and add a true classic to your collection.
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