As picture tells there are 6 notches but the case differs from others I have come to learn is called sei tacche.
I’ve never seen a Longines case like this but the ultimate proof lies inside the case back. If not available, pass. It also depends on the serial number of the movement and style of the dial. I would not expect Longines to have tried variations on the “classic” sei tacche cases before the late 40s or early 50s.
It is a Longines case, Calibre 12.68z with a serial nr in the 8 800 000 range, Case ref is 6404-1 129, presented it in another thread I just wondered if this would fall outside of a "sei tacche" definition - which I guess it will
Could you please link that thread instead of us spending time trying to reply based on incomplete info? If it’s 6 notch and Longines I don’t see why we can’t call it sei tacche even though it would be a “late” sei tacche type case.
Sei tacche implies a certain style and vintage era unique in Longines history. By 1960, this watches style case is used by everything from Seiko to Timex.
No problem original post is here https://omegaforums.net/threads/dirt-and-grime-to-a-new-degree.66235/ @Seiji I do not find it likely at all that this has been skimmed in any way
It clearly has been skimmed. The bottom has no clear edges that it originally had. There are both circular scratches and lateral scratches. Any stamps or engravings on the back are all skimmed off. The notches should not be so close to the surface of the back.
I seriously doubt you are right. But if you were -what should be the motive for "skimming" ? To remove an unwanted engraving or what ?
There are three separate questions here: 1/ is this an authentic Longines case. I can faintly see the markings in your first thread with what faintly appears to be a Longines winged hourglass logo and the usual “acier inoxydable” mention- but a better picture would be preferable. 2/ if an authentic Longines case (which I think it is), does it originally belong to this watch. only Longines can tell. Ask them. 3/ again assuming 1/ and 2/ are correct, can we call “sei tacche” a six notched Longines screwback with a case that’s shaped somewhat differently from the more usual 1940s 6-notch examples? Why not? The word was not registered or defined by Longines but invented by one or several Italian collectors who may fight for credit over the term but AFAIK have no record of a formal definition. If people feel uncomfortable calling it “sei tacche” because it looks unusual, let me suggest a further distinction— over which I will hereby claim trademark, patent and copyright protection: We could distinguish “sei tacche Classico” for the usual 1940s six notch screwback, and “sei tacche tardivo” for the later variants /iterations. The same could be applied to some late tre tacches. TM, Registered, copyright-thanks. It’s only words.
Good call Seiji - I get your point. What I have is not a sei tacche For the rest of the questions that has been raised; It is a Longines case. Whether it's original to the movement I will let Longines tell.
You have an interesting project! Looking forwards to see what it looks like after you clean it up! I think I have a better question, how big is it (the watch)?
My guess is that something was originally on the caseback printed by Longines. Either case numbers or as you are pointing out, the Logo. Your guess would explain the deeper circle scratch that can still be seen. Looks about the right diameter for that circle to match.
Many watches were originally skimmed at the request of the owner to personalize them with an engraving. "I love you dearest, from mom 1940" "Please drive slowly" "Congratulations 20 years of Service". Obviously to resell such a watch, the case base is skimmed again to remove personalization. Now days I think if the engraving is interesting it adds to the value of the watch.