Description
Up for sale is a Longines 18k Yellow Gold Commemorative Mechanical Hunter Case Pocket Watch. This commemorative piece memorializes the 1972 Munich Olympics, which is reflected within the detailed design on the case. The intricate- guilloche- patterned case back is stamped “Longines, Official Timer at the Olympic Games,” paying homage to Longines’ long-term relationship with the Olympics. The 18k YG stamped dial features Roman numerals and baton hands. Case measures 43 mm. Case no. 16292993, Ref. no. 4008. Inventory no. 22222.
Since the late 1800s, Longines has supplied timers for the prestigious Olympic games, an honor that any watch brand would be elated to receive. However, in the 1972 Munich Olympics, all sense of elation was dominated by tragedy in what came to be known as the “Munich Massacre.” A Palestinian terrorist organization that operated under the title “Black September” broke into the Olympics Village and kidnapped Israeli athletes, officials, and coaches. After a grueling 18 hour stand off between German authorities and the terrorists, all hostages were murdered.
Thus, as a means of honoring the victims of the senseless killings, Longines created this pocket watch.
