Hello everyone,

I am selling this exceptionaly rare stainless steel Longines 18.72 hundredth of a second counter stopwatch, which Patrick Lindner refers to in his book Longines au coeur d’une vocation industrielle (Ed. Longines, 2010) as « having been produced on a confidential scale during the Second World War. » (p. 570).

Both inner covers of the watch indeed display the very low number 3, a classification from the Longines factory, who sold the watch on 6th june 1941 to Wittnauer & Co, US agents for the brand.

The outer case furthermore displays the reference GECO 4, which was stamped lightly on the case, certainly after it left the factory in St-Imier. I have not been able to interpret that identification, but it certainly was engraved in the US or maybe Canada.

The very specific technical elements permitting the rare feat of counting to the hundreth of a second can be partially seen on the pictures below, especially the very peculiar "balance wheel" (I do not know the correct term to describe it). I also include another picture to show the contrast between this 18.72 version and the one illustrated in John Goldberger’s Longines Watches book (Damiani 2006), pp. 238-239, which was made earlier (powerered by the 19.73 chronograph caliber).

Although the movement of this chrono stop watch is in exceptionnally good cosmetic condition, it needs a complete rehaul in order for the counter to work again. The dial is original and the glass probably too. Both covers close and open perfectly.

Asking for 1800 USD + shipping (buyer can choose ensured shipping or Fedex depending on location), but all serious offers will be considered.

Bank wire payment preferred, and please feel free to send any questions you might have regarding this item.

Thank you for your interest
Oliver