About This Watch:

The Longines Automatic Ref 6280-3 is a prime example of the innovation and sophistication for which the Longines brand is known. The first Longines automatic calibre movements were produced for the military in the 1940s. The Calibre 22AS, produced by Longines, was the first automatic movement produced for the mainstream market and is featured in the 6280-3.

The History: Founded by Auguste Agassiz and his partners Henri Raiguel and Floria Morel in 1832, Longines began producing timepieces in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Upon his retirement, Agassiz brought on his nephew, Ernest Francillon, in 1852, who spearheaded the movement to purchase land for a factory and modernize production. The factory was built in an area known for its long meadows (les longines), which the company eventually adopted as its name, Longines, in 1867.

The Watch: The Longines Ref 6280-3 features a stainless steel 35mm case with a screw-down “Sei Tacche” (six-notch) case back and an acrylic crystal. The dial is a creamy white and has developed a patina, with silver baton hour markers and “Breguet” style numerals at the 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions. Lume plots are at the tip of each hour marker. The hour and minute hands are Dauphine style and filled with lume. The double-stepped bezel is fixed and polished. The winged hourglass logo sits underneath the signature at the 12 o’clock position.

The Details: This Longines Ref 6280-3 dates to the production year of 1951, based on the movement serial number. The case is in good condition, with wear present on the case and lugs that is consistent with a timepiece of this age. The dial, lume plots, and hands have developed a patina. This timepiece was recently serviced.