Longines Nonius Chronograph Cal 330 Valjoux 72 from 1970s Ref 8271

Longines Nonius Chronograph Ref. 8271 – A Precision Instrument With Avant-Garde Flair

The Longines Nonius Chronograph Ref. 8271 is a testament to an era when mechanical ingenuity met experimental design. Named in homage to the 16th-century Portuguese polymath Pedro Nunes—whose invention of the vernier scale revolutionized precision measurement—this timepiece embodies both horological intellect and visual dynamism.

Originally introduced in the early 1970s, the Nonius is no ordinary chronograph. Beneath its bold exterior lies a modified Valjoux 72 movement—designated Longines Calibre 330—specifically engineered to read 1/10ths of a second, making it one of the most scientifically ambitious wristwatches Longines ever produced.

Iconic Cushion Case – Steel Geometry With Presence

At 40mm, the stainless steel case sits boldly on the wrist, yet its softly contoured cushion shape offers a comfortable, balanced fit. The case features defined edges with polished and brushed transitions, evoking the industrial-modern design language of its decade. Mineral glass protects the dial, staying faithful to the original specifications.

A wide-set crown and oversized pushers underline the watch’s chronometric intent, while the overall silhouette—angular yet ergonomic—enhances its unmistakable tool-watch heritage.

The Nonius Dial – Precision in Motion

The standout feature is undoubtedly the Nonius chronograph hand: a vivid orange lance tipped with a transparent overlay etched with a vernier scale. This floating gauge aligns with the fixed seconds track to provide 1/10th-second readings, a rare mechanical feat in an era before digital timing instruments.

The dial itself is a study in legibility and symmetry. Its matte silver or anthracite base is punctuated by three recessed registers—small seconds, 30-minute, and 12-hour counters—each framed with precision-engineered clarity. Applied hour markers and the Longines winged-hourglass logo add texture and vintage flair.

A tachymeter scale hugs the outer edge of the dial, reinforcing the timepiece’s roots in professional timing—be it for motorsports, athletics, or scientific fieldwork.

Calibre 330 – A Customized Valjoux for Precision Timing

At the heart of the Ref. 8271 is the Longines Calibre 330, a highly customized version of the manual-wind Valjoux 72. Already regarded as one of the most iconic chronograph movements in Swiss history, the Valjoux 72 here has been adapted with an auxiliary mechanism to allow for decisecond accuracy.

Operating at 18,000 vibrations per hour, this tri-register column wheel movement is prized for its crisp pusher feel, elegant architecture, and exceptional durability. The modification by Longines engineers underscores the brand’s mid-century commitment to mechanical advancement—even in the shadow of quartz.

Key Details:

• Model: Longines Nonius Chronograph Ref. 8271

• Serial: 157xxxxx – Early 1970s Production

• Movement: Longines Calibre 330 (based on Valjoux 72), Manual Wind

• Case: 40mm Stainless Steel Cushion Shape

• Crystal: Mineral Glass

• Dial: Tri-Register with Nonius 1/10th Second Hand

• Bracelet: Fitted with Handmade Le Petit Suisse Leather Strap

• Features: Nonius Vernier Chronograph Hand, Tachymeter Scale, Column Wheel Chronograph

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case lines and all-original dial

• Warranty: 1-Year Mechanical Warranty Included

Why This Watch?

The Longines Nonius Ref. 8271 is more than a chronograph—it’s a wearable experiment in micro-mechanical ingenuity. The combination of a modified Valjoux 72 with a vernier-scale chronograph hand places it at the frontier of analog precision, making it a rare example of form serving function in high horology.

For collectors and connoisseurs who value the obscure and the intellectually rich, the Nonius offers both conversation-starting aesthetics and mechanical substance. It is a chronograph with scientific roots, historical context, and wrist presence unlike any other.

Available now on a handmade Belgian leather strap from Le Petit Suisse. Additional photos and wrist shots available on request.