Longines watch ULTRA-CHRON 8429-5 Vintage Cal 6651

SPECIFICATION

Reference : Longines ULTRA-CHRON 8429-5
Movement : 6651 25 jewel 28800 b/ph
Age : Circa 1970s
Case Size : 37mm
Case Thickness : 11mm
Lug to Lug : 38mm
Lugs : 18mm
Condition : Used Longines watch
Box & Papers : Box no papers
Case Material : Stainless Steel
Warranty : 12-Months Warranty

POINTS TO MENTION

• In NOS preowned condition with very light wear
• Case still has original case back sticker
  
• Fully serviced high Beat 28.800 bph movement
  
• Longines signed Crown
  
• Paired with an generic unworn grey leather strap with an original signed Longines buckle, tang has some plating loss.  

A BIT OF TRIVA

The Longines Ultra-Chron, introduced in 1966 to commemorate the company’s 100th anniversary, was one of the world’s most accurate watches at the time, advertised for its precision with a “minute a month” claim. It was a pioneer in high-frequency mechanical watchmaking, with a Caliber 6651 movement oscillating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (vph). This made it far more accurate than typical movements of the era, which generally operated at 18,000 or 21,600 vph. The Ultra-Chron’s high-frequency movement, part of Longines’ push toward innovation, was designed to be more resistant to shocks, making it an excellent choice for high-performance sports and professional use. It was also equipped with Longines’ special molybdenum disulphide lubricant, which provided greater longevity than traditional oils.

The Ultra-Chron gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s for its precise timekeeping under extreme conditions, cementing Longines’ reputation for quality and high-performance timepieces. Housed in durable stainless steel cases, the Ultra-Chron featured various dial and case designs, including the distinctive thick lugs and cushion-style cases. Despite being produced only until the mid-1970s, the Ultra-Chron remains a significant part of Longines' legacy. It is remembered as one of the first high-frequency mechanical watches and a key contributor to the development of modern horology, particularly in the context of professional-grade timekeeping. Today, the Longines Ultra-Chron 8429-5 is a sought-after vintage piece, prized by collectors for its innovation, precision, and timeless appeal.

OUR THOUGHTS

The Longines Ultra-Chron might not have the same fame as some vintage heavyweights, but it’s definitely a gem in the watch world. With its high-frequency movement, it’s like the cool, under-the-radar overachiever of horology! Every time I check out a Longines, I’m reminded of how much bang you get for your buck – top-notch Swiss quality and a rich history all packed into one watch. The Ultra-Chron is a perfect example, blending precision and innovation. It’s the kind of vintage find that any collector would happily show off!