I have recently acquired this Longines Automatic in 18crt gold. Its a bit of a mystery to me at the moment as I am unable to open the caseback. According to the info a Longines chuck Is needed. Is it me or is this slightly odd information to be inscribed on a caseback. It's in need of a service so eventually I will hopefully get a model number and I might even send away to the Longines archive for its history but I was wondering meanwhile If anyone knows what I have?

18crt Gold dress watch
50s/60s
Auto movement ( but which calibre is likely to be inside, educated guesses welcome )

Any more information gratefully received.

 

I can't discount this being a redial either. The Longines letters are possibly a little close together? I got the watch for scrap value so I can't say I am overly concerned. Its my first dip into Longines waters so It gives me an opening to learn more.

 

Marking on the back indicates this is a front loading watch, the back does not come off.

Probably caliber 340.

 

Ah, really. I didn't know that

 

Agree with @X350 XJR , likely a caliber 340 inside, consistent with the use of a one-piece case.
Crown is a replacement, as is likely the seconds hand (plating is inconsistent with rest of the furniture)
Was the "DE" in "SWISS MADE" rubbed off?
Nonetheless a very pleasant watch and I'm sure more details will surface once the case is opened.

 

Here is a similar example in S.S. from Chrono24



Link: https://www.chrono24.com/longines/p...-automatic-mens-watch-by-1963--id21724841.htm

Hope this helps.

 

Hi, yes there is some rubbing on the Swiss made text. Thank-you for your reply. Interesting the crown is a replacement, it's a pretty good match to the watch anyway so I can't see me replacing it. Are these front loaders easy to service I wonder? I would've fancy prizing up that gold bezel I must say!

 

That is practically the same barring the obvious. Cheers @Spruce .

 

I mean thanks @Mephisto

 

On my wrist and ticking away. Running once more and without going to Longines. No parts were needed.