1941 Longines OverSize Salmon Dial Ref. 4366 (with Extract from the Archives)

85 Years and still beautiful

The 1940s are often regarded as one of the great periods of Longines watchmaking, a decade that produced some of the brand's most elegant and enduring wristwatches.

Delivered in July 1941 through Longines' agent in Italy, this reference 4366 embodies the restrained sophistication that collectors have come to appreciate from the manufacture's golden era. The dial layout, typography and overall balance carry a distinctly Art Deco character, giving the watch a timeless elegance that feels just as relevant today as it did more than eight decades ago.

One of the most attractive features of this watch is undoubtedly its original salmon dial. Preserved in unrestored condition, it shows only minor signs of ageing, something increasingly uncommon to encounter on a dial approaching 85 years of age. The warm tone of the dial is complemented by a remarkably thin bezel, allowing the dial to occupy much of the watch's visual footprint and making the watch wear noticeably larger than its 35mm diameter would suggest. Beneath the dial sits Longines' highly regarded calibre 12.68Z, a movement that helped establish the manufacture's reputation as one of the leading makers of high-grade wristwatches during the period.

The stainless steel case appears to have escaped polishing, retaining sharp edges, crisp lines and beautiful original bevelling on its faceted lugs. These architectural lugs add a subtle touch of character to an otherwise understated design and demonstrate the attention to detail that defined Longines during this era. Accompanied by its Longines Extract from the Archives, this reference 4366 represents the kind of honest and beautifully preserved vintage watch that becomes increasingly difficult to find — a watch whose appeal lies as much in its condition and originality as in its design.