To learn the history of a Longines watch inherited from your grandfather, start with its paperwork and visible markings, then ask Longines for an archive extract using the watch’s reference and serial number. The extract can provide historical information, but it does not prove authenticity or establish value. Do not open the case to look for hidden markings; have a professional watchmaker inspect it.
Start with the watch and its paperwork
Gather any box, warranty card, receipts, service records, or other documents that came with the watch. Photograph the watch and note markings visible on the exterior, including any reference or serial number you can read without removing the case back. Longines’ archive request form accepts the reference and serial number and allows photographs to be submitted with the request.
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If a number is hidden inside the case, or you cannot read it without opening the watch, stop there. Longines advises having a professional watchmaker open the case when necessary; do not try to do it yourself.
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Longines says it has preserved historical information associated with timepiece serial numbers since 1867. Its Extract from the Archives is available for watches more than 10 years old and reports information found in the company’s historical records. Eligibility does not mean the watch’s age, model, or history can be determined from the fact that it belonged to your grandfather; Longines needs identifying information to research the specific watch.
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Longines states: “An Extract from the archives does by no means certify the authenticity of the timepiece or its components.” An extract is therefore a historical record, not proof that the watch or every part currently fitted to it is genuine.
Request or learn about a Longines Extract from the Archives.
Rank #2
- Automatic L888 movement, hours, minutes, seconds and date. Transparent case back with sapphire crystal
- Stainless steel with triple safety folding clasp and push-piece opening mechanism
- 5 Year International Warranty
Choose the right service for your question
| What you want to know | Relevant route | What it establishes |
|---|---|---|
| Historical information recorded by Longines | Extract from the Archives | Archive information associated with the serial number; it is not an authenticity certificate or valuation. |
| Whether Longines has authenticated the watch | Certificate of Authenticity | Longines says this can be issued after authentication by a Longines watchmaker. It concerns the watch’s condition when delivered to Longines; the company disclaims responsibility if components are changed afterward. |
| Condition, identification, repair, or restoration needs | Professional diagnosis or Longines restoration service | A specialist can inspect the particular watch. Longines describes identification using its unique serial number and restoration for antique watches, using original components where available. |
| What the watch is worth now | Specialist appraisal | Longines does not estimate the current value of antique watches. An appraiser needs to assess the actual watch and relevant market. |
These services answer different questions: an archive extract is not a substitute for an authentication, inspection, or appraisal. For service and restoration information, see Longines customer services.
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How to handle authenticity and value questions
For authenticity
Longines describes its Certificate of Authenticity as a separate service following authentication by a Longines watchmaker. The certificate reflects the watch as delivered to Longines, not any later changes to components. If this distinction matters, contact Longines or an authorized service center about the current process before sending the watch.
Rank #3
- Automatic L844 movement, hours, minutes, seconds and date. 24 hours hand with time zone mechanism
- Stainless steel with double safety folding clasp and push-piece opening mechanism
- 5 Year International Warranty
For value
An archive entry does not provide a market price. Longines says it does not give value estimates for antique watches, so consult a specialist appraiser who can examine this watch and consider its condition, originality, and market. No specific model, production date, or value can be determined without identifying and inspecting the watch.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Have the watch checked before wearing or restoring it
If the watch needs identification, repair, or restoration, a professional inspection is the practical next step. Longines recommends a full service every six to eight years for mechanical watches as general maintenance guidance; that interval is not a diagnosis of an inherited watch whose condition and service history are unknown. Longines advises using an authorized service center. Its published service information notes a 24-month warranty on work carried out, while vintage calibres made before 1990 are estimate-only in its international pricing list. Check the current service details for your location before arranging work.
Rank #4
- Quartz L420 movement, hours and minutes.
- Black Alligator strap with buckle
- 2 Year International Warranty
Do not assume the watch is water-resistant simply because it once kept time or appears intact. Longines says gasket wear or an impact can affect water-resistance, recommends an annual water-resistance check by an approved service center, and cautions against opening the watch yourself. Its manual states: “In no circumstances should you open your watch yourself.” Find a manual by watch name, reference, or calibre using Longines’ manual lookup.
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Best Value
- 【Premium Leather Band】Crafted with high-quality genuine leather, the strap is soft, breathable, and durable, ensuring long-term comfort for all-day wear. The adjustable design fits most wrist sizes (6.0-7.5 inches), allowing for a customized and secure fit.
- 【Timeless Design】Features a sleek round dial (30mm/32mm optional) with minimalist hour markers and hands, exuding understated elegance that complements both formal outfits and casual ensembles. Available in versatile colors (black, brown, navy, beige) to match different styles.
- 【Reliable Quartz Movement】Equipped with accurate quartz movement, providing precise timekeeping with minimal deviation. Battery-powered (includes 1 replaceable button battery) for long-lasting performance.
- 【Durable & Practical】Scratch-resistant mineral glass dial window protects against daily scratches and impacts. Water-resistant to 30 meters (3ATM), suitable for daily use such as hand washing, rain, and splashes (not for swimming or bathing).
- 【Ideal for Gifting】Comes in a elegant gift box, making it a thoughtful present for friends, family, or colleagues on birthdays, anniversaries, Mother’s Day, or other meaningful occasions.
A practical order of steps
- Collect the paperwork and accessories that came with the watch, and photograph its exterior.
- Record only reference and serial numbers visible without opening the case.
- Submit the identifying details and photographs through Longines’ History of my watch service to ask about an archive extract.
- If you need an authenticity determination, condition assessment, repair, or restoration, contact Longines or an authorized professional watchmaker about inspection.
- If you need a current value, seek a specialist appraisal of the specific watch rather than relying on archive information.
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