Longines Weems Navigation

The concept for the "Weems Second-Setting" aerial navigation watch was developed and patented by U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Philip Van Horn Weems (1889 to 1979) in the 1920s. The Weems watch has a rotating bezel which can be turned and then locked to match the sweep seconds hand with a radio time signal, enabling more accurate navigation. Weems collaborated with Longines to bring the first models of the watch into production starting in November of 1928. Weems also taught aerial navigation to famed aviator Charles Lindbergh, who went on to develop his own navigational watch in the 1930s, also produced by Longines. Comparing this serial number of this watch (6,30x,xxx) with other examples which have extracts from the official Longines factory records places the production of this example in 1942. This is the smaller-sized model and was priced at $60.00 in 1942. It is in crisp, excellent condition showing only very light wear. The case on this example is unusually nice for a watch that typically saw heavy use in the field. The rotating bezel still shows all of its original brushed factory finish. The caseback is excellent and unengraved, with most of its factory-applied circular finish, and a few light scratches. The case measures 35mm long and 27mm wide. Original dial is excellent. Has new glass crystal. The watch is powered by its correct 17-jewel Longines grade 10L manual wind movement, just serviced and running strong. Has vintage 1940s military-green canvas strap with metal buckle and keepers.