ANTIQUE 1936 Longines XI Olympiad Berlin Olympic Pocket Watch – 18k Gold Plated

Presented for acquisition is an exceptionally rare, historically significant antique Longines pocket watch, specially commissioned to commemorate the 1936 Summer Olympics (the Games of the XI Olympiad) held in Berlin, Germany. During the 1930s, Longines was cementing its legendary reputation as a pioneer in high-precision sports timekeeping on the global stage.

This specific timepiece was crafted as an exclusive commemorative issue for the 1936 Games. The reverse of the case is magnificently adorned with a crisp white enamel inlay depicting the iconic Brandenburg Gate, crowned with the year “1936”, and underscored by the text “XI. OLYMPIADE BERLIN” and the universally recognized interlocking Olympic Rings. Surviving commemorative watches from this specific international event—particularly those in near-mint condition housing chronometer-grade movements—are incredibly scarce, making this a premier acquisition for serious horological, sporting, and mid-20th-century history collectors.

Technical Specifications

• Maker: Longines

• Era: 1936 (Commemorating the Games of the XI Olympiad)

• Case Material: 18k Gold Plated with Polychrome Enamel detailing.

• Case Diameter: 47mm

• Dial: White porcelain/enamel dial with black Breguet-style Arabic numerals, a red inner 24-hour track (13-24), and a subsidiary seconds register at the 6 o’clock position.

• Movement: Longines chronometer-grade manual-wind mechanical movement, Caliber 18.25, 16 Jewels, gilt finish.

• Operating State: Tested and in perfect, near-mint working condition.

Detailed Condition & Macro-Photographic Report

This historical artifact has been exceptionally preserved, remaining in near-mint antique condition. Please refer to the detailed macro photography provided for a precise visual inspection:

• Dial & Hands : The dial is in remarkable condition, featuring stark, highly legible black Arabic numerals surrounded by an outer minute track and a red inner 24-hour military time track. The original blued steel hands retain their rich, heat-treated color, and the subsidiary seconds dial is crisp and clean. The “LONGINES” signature is perfectly preserved.

• Commemorative Case Exterior : The reverse of the 18k gold-plated case is the centerpiece of this watch. The intricate white enamel inlay of the Brandenburg Gate and the Olympic rings is completely intact, showing no chips or loss—a remarkable feat for a piece of this age. The gold plating exhibits a brilliant luster with only the faintest microscopic wear commensurate with careful, prestigious ownership.

• Inner Case & Hallmarks  The interior of the case back is distinctly stamped with the historic Longines winged hourglass logo (“EFCo LONGINES”). The case serial number 4960706 is clearly engraved at the bottom.

• Chronometer Movement : The engine of this watch is a top-tier Longines Caliber 18.25 movement, featuring a brilliant gilt finish. The plates are cleanly stamped with “LONGINES”, “16 RUBIS”, and the movement serial number 4960706 (matching the case, confirming its complete originality). The bi-metallic balance wheel, precision micro-regulator, and ruby jewels set in chatons highlight the chronometer-grade Swiss craftsmanship. The watch winds smoothly, sets precisely, and operates perfectly.

Condition Summary: Near mint antique condition. The structural integrity of the 47mm case is excellent, with tight closure and a firm bow. The dial and Olympic enamel motifs are exceptionally preserved. A superb, fully functional collector’s piece that stands as a testament to 1930s sports history and Longines’ mechanical mastery.

Please review all high-resolution images carefully as they serve as a definitive extension of this technical description.