Wittnauer
New York, United States · Est. 1880
Founded by Albert Wittnauer
Wittnauer was a Swiss-American watch brand, originally the US distribution arm of Longines, founded by Albert Wittnauer in 1880. Known for chronographs used in aviation milestones including Lindbergh's transatlantic flight. The brand was absorbed into the Bulova family.
- Founded
- 1880
- Headquarters
- New York, United States
- Group
- Other
- Price Segment
- Mid
- Status
- Defunct
Ceased: 2002
Wittnauer was gradually absorbed into the Bulova brand family after Bulova's acquisition by Citizen, losing its independent identity by the early 2000s.
Wittnauer timed Lindbergh's Atlantic crossing and Byrd's polar flights — aviation history written in Swiss-American collaboration.
Key Collections
- Professional Chronograph — Wittnauer's flagship chronograph line, renowned for reliability and used extensively by aviators and professionals throughout the mid-20th century.
- All-Proof — A rugged, water-resistant collection developed in partnership with Longines, marketed for durability in demanding conditions.
- Genève — An elegant dress watch collection emphasising Swiss craftsmanship, positioned as an accessible luxury line for the American market.
- Electronic — Wittnauer's range of tuning fork and early quartz watches from the 1960s and 1970s, reflecting the brand's embrace of emerging technology.
Timeline
- 1880 — Albert Wittnauer, a Swiss immigrant, establishes A. Wittnauer Co. in New York City as the American distribution agent for Longines watches.
- 1927 — Wittnauer-Longines timepieces accompany Charles Lindbergh on his historic solo transatlantic flight, enhancing the brand's aviation credentials.
- 1936 — Admiral Richard E. Byrd uses Wittnauer chronometers during his Antarctic expeditions, cementing the brand's reputation for precision timing.
- 1950 — The Longines-Wittnauer Watch Company is formally established as a consolidated American subsidiary.
- 1971 — Wittnauer becomes part of the Bulova Corporation following corporate restructuring within the Longines-Wittnauer group.
- 2002 — Following Citizen's acquisition of Bulova, the Wittnauer brand is phased out as a distinct watchmaking identity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wittnauer
- When did Wittnauer stop making watches?
- Wittnauer effectively ceased independent production around 2002, after the brand was absorbed into the Bulova family following Citizen's acquisition. The name was occasionally licensed thereafter but no longer represented active watchmaking.
- Are Wittnauer watches still valuable?
- Vintage Wittnauer watches, particularly the Professional Chronographs from the 1960s and aviation-related pieces, are sought after by collectors. Their historical significance and quality Swiss movements contribute to enduring value in the secondary market.
- Can I still buy a Wittnauer watch today?
- Original Wittnauer watches are only available on the vintage and pre-owned market. The brand name has occasionally appeared on licensed products, but these do not represent the heritage Swiss-American manufacturing of the original company.
- What is the connection between Wittnauer and Longines?
- Albert Wittnauer established his company as the exclusive American distributor for Longines in 1880. The two brands operated closely for decades under the Longines-Wittnauer Watch Company, sharing movements and distribution networks until corporate changes in the 1970s separated them.
- Were Wittnauer watches used in aviation history?
- Yes, Wittnauer-Longines timepieces were famously worn by Charles Lindbergh during his 1927 transatlantic flight and by Admiral Richard Byrd on Antarctic expeditions, establishing the brand's strong association with aviation and exploration.