The Swiss watch manufacturer Longines has a long history that began in 1832. This tradition is clearly reflected in their models, which are characterized by classic elegance as well as high quality finishing and precision. Thanks to their reliability and timeless designs, Longines watches enjoy great popularity among watch lovers worldwide. Another special feature of Longines is the brand’s broad collection, which offers watches for all occasions. These models are available in the mid-range price segment, which is made possible by the use of ETA calibers. Longines relies on the tried, tested, and traditional, resulting in durable watches that can withstand daily wear and tear. Discover the diversity of the collections and the stories behind them with my six favorite Longines models.
Spirit Zulu Time
To kick things off, my favorite model: the Longines Spirit Zulu Time. I must admit that I’m biased here. I see this watch on my partner’s wrist at least once a week, which helped me learn how versatile it is: elegant on a leather strap, sporty on a striped NATO strap, and always fashionable with its green bezel. If you’re wondering what “Zulu” means, we have the answer for you. “Zulu Time” is the military term for Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
With the Zulu Time, Longines is not only celebrating over 100 years of displaying multiple time zones on a single watch, but also its tradition in crafting instruments and watches for the aviation industry.
DolceVita
Although the DolceVita line has only been part of the Longines range for just over 20 years, it’s clear from its Art Deco design that this watch is inspired by the 1920s.
The model is reminiscent of Cartier’s famous Tank, and its Roman numerals are typical of the Art Deco style. But the DolceVita is significantly cheaper than the Tank, making it a popular entry-level model for women, especially as a quartz watch. In fact, the watch was so successful that the company decided to produce not only models with automatic movements, but also unisex and men’s models. The design is simply too beautiful to be reserved for just one gender.
Lindbergh Hour Angle
Longines was the brand that accompanied aviation pioneer Charles Lindbergh on his flight from Paris to New York, with which he later developed a watch to help pilots navigate. This timepiece has a two-part dial. The inner dial displays the time, while the outer dial is used to determine the hour angle.
This function enables pilots to calculate their position using the sun. With a diameter of 47.5 mm, the watch is more of a tool watch than a daily wearer, but it’s also a very special collector’s item and an integral part of watchmaking history.
Spirit Flyback Chronograph
This model is also inspired by aviation, but has made it onto my list primarily because the flyback function can be traced back to Longines. Longines first incorporated this feature into the 13ZB movement in 1936, thus making life easier for pilots. The special thing about a flyback chronograph is that you don’t have to stop it to reset it to zero. Instead, the chronograph can be reset during operation and starts running again immediately.
This not only improves ease of use, but also enables much more accurate measurements. The Longines Spirit Flyback Chronograph is a stylish way to celebrate this milestone in the history of aviation and the art of watchmaking, and – as you would expect from Longines – at an affordable price.
Master Collection
The watches in the Master Collection draw on Longines’ experience in the world of watchmaking to create elegant watches for every day, all with automatic winding. For me, the basic model with a date display is one of the best watches from Longines. Not only is it an incredibly versatile watch that can be worn on any occasion, but it also features many remarkable details, including the dial pattern, blued hands, and outstanding workmanship that can only be fully appreciated when you wear the watch on your wrist. For me, the Master Collection is the ideal introduction to the watch cosmos. It’s reliable and versatile enough to really be a watch for all occasions, but also fascinating enough to be the start of a passion for watches.
Legend Diver
Diving watches are among the most popular watches for the water and everyday wear. However, if classic divers are too large for your taste, the Legend Diver is a good choice. Doing without a diving bezel and measuring just 39 mm in diameter, it’s the perfect combination of sports and ladies’ watch.
The vintage look underscores the understated feel of the model. What’s most impressive, however, is the long tradition behind the timepiece. As early as 1937, Longines developed a case with waterproof push-pieces, making it suitable for diving. Production of diving watches on a larger scale began in the 1960s. The Legend Diver is, therefore, a beautiful reminder of this era, and the perfect unisex diving watch.
Summary
Whether you’re new to the world of luxury watches or a seasoned collector, Longines watches are certainly worth a closer look. And there is much more to discover than just these six watches. Every Longines watch not only has a long and exciting history and good quality, but is also available at a price that won’t break the bank. These are watches that you can enjoy wearing without a care in the world – and that is ultimately the most important thing about a watch.
