Family run watch store executive Mohammed Faaiz lists his five favourite Longines watches
Longines Watches, founded in the year 1832 in Saint-Imier, is arguably the most underrated brand from the Swatch Group stable. In 1885 they won 10 “Grand Prix” and 28 “Medailles d’Or” awards, an unrivalled record which remains to this day. Longines were one of the first manufacturers to mechanically produce a wristwatch in 1905.
Over the years they became renowned through high-profile aviators: When Charles A. Lindbergh made the first non-stop transatlantic flight from New York to Paris in 1927, he was timed by Longines. In 1932, Amelia Earhart became the first female pilot to fly from Newfoundland to Ireland and was equipped with a Longines wristwatch.
An exceptional brand with several best selling designs and features, they also own the oldest logo registered by a watchmaker, that of the winged hourglass.
Here are 5 of my personal favourite Longines watches from their current offering.
Longines Conquest Heritage
The simplistic design of Longines Conquest Heritage Reference L1.645.4.75.4 evokes the aura and charm of the 1960s. The watch features a domed scratch resistant Sapphire Crystal and a Self Winding automatic movement. It is rated 30 metres water resistant and has a 40mm polished stainless steel case. The watch retails for around £1,400.00 and comes with a 3 year international warranty.
Longines Master Chronograph
Why is a chronograph with two counters more pleasing to the eye than the usual 3 counter layout? Perhaps, it makes the dial seem less cluttered or maybe it is more aesthetically perfect due to the symmetrical position of the dual counters. This beautiful self-winding automatic chronograph from the Longines Master collection, Reference L2.629.4.78.6, is a perfect example of such. It has a perfect 40mm size stainless steel case with a display case back and a matching stainless steel bracelet. The water resistance rating is up to a splash proof 30 metres. The retail price for this stunning chronograph is around £1,700.00.
Longines Heritage Legend Diver
The Longines Heritage Legend Diver Reference L3.674.4.50.0 is an absolute favorite for enthusiasts in search of a watch with genuine divers design and specifications. The watch is guaranteed water proof to 300 meters, thanks to its Screw down crown and Caseback. This self winding automatic watch features a Bi-directional inner Bezel that can be operated using the Secondary Crown. The 42mm case provides good legibility, essential for underwater usage. The watch retails for around £1,500.00.
Longines Evidenza
The highlight of Longines Evidenza Automatic reference L2.672.4.73.4 is the timeless and stunning Tonneau (Barrel Shaped) case. It is an iconic design from a watchmaker’s perspective, breaking the monotony of the conventional round and square shaped cases. The movement features a Power Reserve Indicator, an interesting complication that reminds the wearer of power remaining in the movement. The stainless steel case has a dimension of 38mm x 33mm and the watch is 30 metres water resistant. The retail price of this elegant wristwatch is approximately £1,700.00.
Longines Master Collection
Finally, Reference L2.739.4.71.6 from the Longines Master Collection hosts a plethora of interesting complications. The watch’s automatic movement features a Retrograde Day, Date, Seconds and AM/PM display. This complicated movement also has an additional Moon Phases complication. Due to the presence of these complications, the case size of this watch is a massive 44mm. This 30 metres water resistant complicated wristwatch from Longines retails for £2,400.00 in the UK.
