Manufactured in 1968, this exceptionally rare Longines Neuchâtel Observatory Competition Watch is offered in unused condition.
Produced specifically for the prestigious Swiss Neuchâtel Observatory, this remarkable watch is considered a prototype of the later Longines Ultra-Chron. It is powered by the Cal. 431, a state-of-the-art high-beat movement operating at 10 vibrations per second, which represented the pinnacle of mechanical watchmaking technology at the time.
The watch features a highly functional “working dial” reminiscent of the precision instruments used by Longines’ customer service department, emphasizing both exceptional legibility and timekeeping accuracy. As such, it stands as an extraordinarily important competition sample watch created specifically for chronometric testing and observatory trials.
Beyond its rarity, the preservation of this example is truly outstanding. It remains an unused piece, retaining the original protective film on the case back as well as the sticker bearing the movement serial number. Several dial variations are known to exist, and this particular example is distinguished by a printed square index at the 6 o’clock position.
The watch is accompanied by its original strap and buckle.