This Longines “D” marked German Luftwaffe wristwatch dated to 1944 stands at the intersection of Swiss craftsmanship and military specification
Commissioned by the Reichsluftfahrtministerium (RLM) for Luftwaffe use, its a very rare watch as approximately only 500 pieces were produced between 1943 and 1945, making this model one of the very few survivor of its era.
The watch has a stainless steel 33 mm case (excluding the crown), showing only light signs of wear appropriate to its age. The screw-down caseback offered a modest moisture resistance and it bears a clean “D” marking with a low serial number, aligning with similar documented military-issued warches.
Under the domed plexiglass crystal sits the original black glossy silver gilt dial, with large Arabic numerals and a snmall seconds counter at 6 o’clock. The dial is in a very good condition, it shows only a light patina with no significant discoloration or deterioration evident.
Powering this piece is the Longines Caliber 12.68Z, a manual wind movement first introduced in 1938 and which has remained in production until the early 1960s, serving as one of the brand’s most versatile and reliable manual-winding movements of the time.
With a diameter of 27 mm and a height of 4.5 mm, it was engineered for both civilian and military use, offering a robust architecture capable of withstanding the demands of field conditions. Known for its long-term reliability, the architecture of the 12.68Z is characterized by its balanced layout and ease of servicing, making it a favored choice among military contractors during World War II.
The watch is paired with a new leather strap.
Recently serviced in-house, it is now in sound mechanical condition. The offering includes a six-month mechanical guarantee and certificate of authenticity.
For historians and collectors of WWII military timepieces, this Longines D exemplifies authentic German contracted Swiss engineering applied to german milspecs: historically significant, technically durable, and preserved in original form.
Worldwide express courier shipping is available; inquiries are welcome for further details or viewing arrangements.
