Longines 30CH

DirtyDozen12

I do not have photos or documentation of ref. 5981.

Another reference that comes to mind is 5971, which is a gold-plated 30CH reference. The case design of ref. 5971 differs from your watch as its bezel is sloped not stepped. Additionally, the case-backs of ref. 5971 are not gold-plated. This is consistent with gold-plated 13ZN reference 5523. Further, both ref. 5971 and 5523 have case-backs that are marked "Fond Acier Inoxydable". Though odd, I suspect that the case of your watch was plated after it left the factory.

Beyond the case, I notice a few other things. Looking at a photo of the movement (seen here: https://orologi.forumfree.it/?t=80104160), the column wheel screw is from a later 30CH movement. Also, the very worn condition of the movement (e.g., exposed brass on main bridge, missing reset hammer) does not appear to be consistent with the relatively clean condition of the dial. I have long been curious about this exact dial design, as I have seen many examples in almost perfect condition. I wonder if they could be service dials. Finally, neither of the sub-dial hands are the correct style.

Syrte

Here are pictures from the thread on O&P.

Larry S

Some SS cases are gold capped. I have a lovely Mido like that. What I find interesting is the case back, also capped? Sure looks like it left the factory that way. I wonder if perhaps there is a gap in Longines record keeping. It’s a lovely watch. I’d not mess with it.

Dan S

I'm still not sure how a photo will help the OP remove the plating. Maybe the OP wants to know the original finishes on the various surfaces, i.e. polished/brushed? Maybe he can be more specific about what he is hoping to learn.

Syrte

At least we now understand better what the problem is.
But IMO what you need is not a picture, what you need is a master jeweler who can tell you if it can be done without damage. You should contact Rebecca Struthers who’s on Instagram, she and her husband are master jewelers and watchmakers and they work on watches with precious metals.

Hope it helps,
S

Syrte

Have you already removed the gold plating?

If you want full information on your watch, instead of an extract of archive you should send the watch to Saint Imier in order to get a certificate of authenticity, and for the price you will pay they will examine all of the available information in the archive including possibly a picture of the reference.

Syrte

An extract of archive is not a certificate of authenticity. It will not guarantee that the watch is entirely correct in all of its parts.