Longines Avigation Type-A7 1935 automatic watch 41 mm

A real pilot's watch

As a tribute to the achievements of aviation pioneers, Longines draws inspiration from its rich history to present this exceptional timepiece: The Longines Avigation Watch Type A-7 1935. It was at the beginning of the 20th century that the watch brand associated its name with pilots who, through their exploits, made history. Charles Lindbergh, the first aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic, is a case in point. Precision and solidity were the key words for the design of the "Type A-7" watches which had to meet very precise criteria. Conditions sine qua non to deserve this mention given by the American army for these single button watches produced by Longines and Meylan in the 1930s.

This chronograph, with its elegantly vintage look, combines the performance and precision required in this field. While the original Type A-7 measures 49mm - a typical size for military watches of the 1930s - this one measures 41mm, a much more conservative size. Otherwise, it was designed to look like the original, and you may have to look closely at the dials of both watches to tell them apart. For example, the Type A-7 1935's dial is white lacquer, not porcelain, and the cathedral numerals and hands are painted in orange SuperLuminova to give an aged feel.

Designed to be worn on the inside of the wrist, the special orientation of the dial allowed pilots to read the indications without letting go of the aircraft's control stick, while the crown was designed to be easily manipulated, even with gloves.

An exceptional chronograph calibre

This Type A-7 1935 will be noticed for its unique design and the performance and precision requirements of the aviation world. Its stainless steel case with a diameter of 41 mm houses an automatic caliber L788.2. And this is precisely what makes this watch one of its greatest strengths. The monopusher and column wheel chronographs are absolutely incredible in their design and use. Often used at Vacheron Constantin, IWC or even Minerva in very prohibitive prices, Longines supports an affordable version since 2012 with this reference.

It is an automatic movement with a balance operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, and offers a power reserve of 54 hours. The chronograph counts down to 30 minutes and the start, stop and reset button works smoothly, with a distinct "click" at the end of each press. An exceptional caliber for a very unusual piece!

The package

This piece will be delivered to you Full Set, with its original case and papers. The warranty card and the instructions for use are also provided. This Longines Avigation has been authenticated and tested by our watchmakers and as such benefits from the Lepage Vintage 1 year warranty.