I have become interested in the Ultra-chron line. High-beat movements seem kinda cool

Are there any particular models or movements that are more collectible? Any to avoid?

 

There were two beat counts for the Ultra-Chron series. From it's introduction in 1967 through 1971 the caliber 43x series ran at 36,000 bph. These models require a little more frequent service due to the higher rate, but are capable of seriously great accuracy and not just because of the high mph. Longines reduced the speed to 28,800 bph in 1972 and changed the caliber numbers to the 66xx series. Other than the change in ratios to the wheel train and a few modifications to the plates, they're identical to the 43x series - click HERE for more on all the Longines in-house automatics from WWII to the quartz revolution. A common issue to look for is rotor wobble. The bearings at the rotor's hub and the top hat looking piece they contact that stabilized the rotor can wear unevenly if not properly maintained. It's easy to spot - look for scrapes on the top of the rotor or the inside of the case back.

The Ultra-Chrons came in a variety of cases, most common being the C-case. If you like the C-case because it's a little different, you'll like the higher bph rates - and vice versa. Stainless, plated, two tone w/ gold bezel, and 14ct specimens aren't difficult to find, but the 18ct C-cases don't come up very often. I know of 3 collectors (me, LouS, and somebody from another forum) who own them, and I've only seen 2 or 3 others pop up on eBay in the last few years.

There are a few other high beat watches to check out too. Despite Longines sending their caliber 360 to the chronometer competitions starting in 1969, Girard Perregaux was the first to offer them to the public in 1965. The King Seiko and Grand Seiko of the late 60's and early 70's are very cool too, and Zodiac offered a few as well.

 

Excellent information, as always! Thank you!

This one seems kind of interesting. I spotted one small scratch on the interior of the case back, but it looks clean otherwise.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/271086732486?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649Purchases made through these links may earn this site a commission from the eBay Partner Network

 

I know that watch well. My watchmaker Sam used to have one. It's BIG. There's also a stainless chronometer rated 431 for a not so bad Buy It Now of $888 listed now.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/370670442283?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649Purchases made through these links may earn this site a commission from the eBay Partner Network

It's a little less clunky of a case, but it's several hundred more than what the one you linked to is likely to sell for.

 

Indeed! I might go after the cheaper of the two to see how I like it. I have fairly big wrists anyhoo.

 

A conservative case compare to the one Lex linked to, and a really nice size for a sport-ish watch at 38 mm (when measured 2 - 8 ø). I've got it on my watched list since it's uncommon to see CHRONOMETER printed on a Longines dial. Most of their watches could easily pass the certification, they just didn't bother to have it done and incur the cost.

 

Oh, stop. I can take a temporarily setback to my plan for a prime target of opportunity - but I probably won't.

 

I have a few of these ultrachrons... super accurate but according to my watchmaker, they're a pain to service (maybe he's just getting too old )

Anways, I hope you take Dennis' (ulackfocus) advice and find a nice one that suits you well.

 

I think "pain" might be too strong, but you do have to use special lubricant on the escapement because it moves so fast.

 

That's probably what he meant and just didn't want to take the time to explain the specifics to me. Either that or It was a pain for him to find the special lubricant

 

I'd wager it's more about the cost - it's expensive and very specific to 36,000 bph calibers which he probably doesn't see very many of.