Longines Watches Review


Swiss luxury watch company, Longines, has been in business since 1832 and boasts such accolades as the first wrist chronograph, the first wristwatch outfitted with a rotatable bezel, and the first flyback chronograph. The company is a self-proclaimed pioneer in watchmaking, and we couldn't agree more.

Today, Longines produces beautifully constructed timepieces that are on the more affordable end of the Swiss luxury watch spectrum, and this means you can invest in a classic Swiss wristwatch from one of the most innovative companies in the industry without breaking the bank. Additionally, when you consider the many dial, bracelet, movement, and model options within the catalog, the possibilities seem endless. As you can imagine, it can be difficult to determine which Longines watch belongs on your wrist.

We’re here to help with this comprehensive Longines buying guide, complete with a brief overview of most of the brand’s collections and sub-collections.

History & Overview of Longines Watches

Longines Watches Ultimate Buying Guide

Longines was founded in 1832 by Auguste Agassiz and is currently located in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Their story began with pocket watches but eventually evolved to wristwatches around 1913 with the invention of the world’s first wrist chronograph. Longines developed the first wristwatch equipped with a rotating bezel in 1931, followed by the first flyback chronograph in 1936. Without the pioneering company, the watchmaking industry as we know it today wouldn’t be the same.

Longines has earned numerous contracts and forged countless partnerships throughout its history, including the official supplier of the International Aeronautical Federation shortly after WWI, the official timekeeper of World Championships, a partner of International Sports Federations, and watchmaker for the British Ministry of Defense during WWII. Their influence is impressive, with famous wearers including Albert Einstein, Amelia Earhart, Kate Winslet, and Andre Agassi, many of whom once served as Longines brand ambassadors.

Looking at the Longines catalog, there seems to be a watch for just about everyone. In fact, there are over 1,000 watches from which to choose. However, it can be pretty easy to navigate the brand’s portfolio once you understand how it’s structured. Longines watches are divided into two main categories, Classic and sport. The Classic category consists of two sub-categories, the Watchmaking Tradition Collection and Elegance Collection. From there, each boasts several model options. The Sport category includes the Diving, Avigation, and Performance collections. Like the Classic collection, the Sport category also consists of a handful of model options each. Many of these watches boast multiple design set options, such as dial colors, bracelet type, and metal finish, totaling over 1,000 watches. When comparing Longines to other luxury brands, like Longines vs Omega, Longines offers a wider variety of styles at generally more affordable price points, while still delivering the prestige and quality of Swiss luxury watchmaking.

Longines Watch Collections

Longines Watch Collections

The Master Collection

The Longines Master Collection represents a cornerstone of luxury watchmaking at an exceptional value point. Launched in 2005, this line blends traditional complications with modern reliability, featuring everything from simple automatic models to sophisticated calendar functions and chronographs. The collection balances classical design elements with contemporary engineering, appealing to both new collectors and seasoned enthusiasts through its diverse range of options.

Master Collection Chronograph

Master Collection Chronograph

Column-wheel chronograph movements power these classical timepieces, delivering precise timing capabilities through well-proportioned subdials and detailed finishes. The sophisticated dial layouts feature applied numerals and hour markers as well as blued steel hands (some feature pink or silver hands) that enhance the overall elegance of the watch, while the automatic L688 caliber, amongst other options, ensures consistent performance and durability that has made these models particularly popular among watch enthusiasts.

Available in sizes from 40mm to 44mm, these chronographs come in stainless steel and hints of rose gold variants with multiple dial options. From sunburst to barleycorn patterns, each version offers versatility while maintaining refined character. The combination of traditional chronograph architecture with modern manufacturing techniques creates timepieces that excel in both form and function.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 40-44mm
  • Caliber: Automatic Calibers: L688, L889, L687, L688
  • Materials: Steel, rose gold, two-tone
  • Features: Column-wheel, display back, moonphase options, bi-compax or tri-compax dials
  • Retail: $3,075 - $3,850
  • Pre-owned: $1,800 - $3,000

Master Collection Moonphase

Master Collection Moonphase

The moonphase models combine astronomical functionality with refined aesthetics through sophisticated dial arrangements. A precise lunar display accompanies calendar functions on carefully balanced dials that showcase traditional watchmaking elements while maintaining excellent legibility despite their complexity. The result creates dress watches that offer both practical functionality and visual intrigue.

The caliber L899 powers the 34mm - 44mm watches through an automatic system that manages both timekeeping and calendar displays. The caliber L707 powers the 41mm and 44mm Retrograde model options. The moonphase indicator at 6 o'clock becomes a focal point, complemented by leaf-shaped hands and Roman numerals, while the refined case finishing and exhibition caseback demonstrate attention to detail at every level.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 34mm - 44mm
  • Caliber: Automatic Calibers: L899, L707
  • Materials: Steel, rose gold two-tone, yellow gold two-tone
  • Features: Moonphase, calendar, small-seconds (Retrograde model)
  • Retail: $2,625 - $4,250
  • Pre-owned: $1,600 - $4,000

Master Collection GMT

Master Collection GMT

The GMT models merge practical functionality with classical design through a sophisticated dual-time display system. The clear layout maintains excellent legibility while incorporating an additional time zone hand, making these watches particularly suitable for frequent travelers. The design balances multiple functions without compromising the elegant aesthetic that defines the Master Collection.

The automatic L844 caliber drives the GMT function through a dedicated 24-hour hand, while maintaining the collection's reputation for reliable timekeeping. Available in a 40mm case with a classic dial, these watches feature polished finishing techniques that enhance the overall elegant appearance of these pieces, all the while still remaining perfect for both business and casual wear situations.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 40mm, 42mm
  • Caliber: L844 automatic GMT
  • Materials: 18k yellow gold, 18k pink gold
  • Features: Dual-time display, date
  • Retail: $14,750 (limited to 500 pieces)
  • Pre-owned: $11,500+

Conquest Collection

The Longines Conquest delivers robust sports watches that blend performance with refinement since its introduction in 1954. These timepieces have evolved to meet modern standards while maintaining core design elements that emphasize durability and precision. Each piece combines technical capability with versatile aesthetics for active lifestyles, from everyday wear models to professional diving watches.

Conquest Classic

Longines Conquest Classic Stainless Steel & Rose Gold

The Classic line updates traditional sporty elements through contemporary engineering and design fit for everyday wear. Clean dials feature applied indices and sword hands that optimize legibility, while the cases combine brushed and polished surfaces to create a refined yet sporty aesthetic. The collection demonstrates versatility through designs that transition seamlessly from formal to casual environments.

Modern automatic movements power these watches, which feature 50m water resistance and robust construction for daily wear. Available in sizes from 29.5mm to 34mm, the collection mainly includes three-hand models.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 29.5mm - 34mm
  • Caliber: RENATA 371 quartz movement
  • Materials: Steel, two-tone (PVD coating)
  • Features: 50m WR, dual finish, diamond options
  • Retail: $975 - $3,000
  • Pre-owned: $500 - $2,800

Conquest Chronograph

The Conquest Chronograph enhances sporting capability through robust construction and precise timing functions. Protected by substantial cases with screw-down crown guards and pushers, these watches maintain excellent water resistance while delivering reliable chronograph operation through column-wheel movement. The dial design emphasizes legibility with high-contrast subdials and strong luminous elements.

The L898 caliber combines traditional column-wheel architecture with modern reliability standards, all while maintaining 100m water resistance. The collection offers multiple dial variations in black, silver, gold, green, and blue, complemented by bracelet or rubber strap options that adapt to various activities and preferences without compromising performance.

Key Features:

  • Size: 42mm
  • Caliber: L898 column-wheel
  • Materials: Steel, rubber strap options, ceramic bezels
  • Features: 100m WR, chrono
  • Retail: $3,650 - $4,300
  • Pre-owned: $1,000 - $3,750

Conquest VHP

Longines Conquest VHP

The Longines Conquest VHP (Very High Precision) represents cutting-edge quartz technology through movements accurate to ±5 seconds per year. The perpetual calendar function automatically adjusts for months of varying lengths, while the intelligent crown system enables rapid time setting without compromising accuracy. Advanced features include a gear position detection system that automatically realigns the hands after exposure to magnetic fields.

These now-discontinued modern tool watches incorporate a flash-setting function that enables time zone adjustments through a smartphone's flash. Multiple case sizes and dial variations maintain the Conquest collection's sporty aesthetic while housing sophisticated quartz technology. The combination of extreme accuracy and robust construction creates practical timepieces for demanding environments.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 41mm - 44mm
  • Caliber: Quartz Movement
  • Materials: Steel, Carbon Fiber
  • Features: ±5 sec/year, perpetual calendar
  • Retail: Discontinued
  • Pre-owned: $600 - $2,000

HydroConquest

Longines HydroConquest

The HydroConquest series delivers professional diving capability through modern materials and engineering. The ceramic bezel provides exceptional scratch resistance while maintaining precise diving time measurements, and the substantial case construction ensures reliability to 300m depths. These watches blend serious underwater capability with refined aesthetics suitable for everyday wear.

Modern diving watch features include unidirectional rotating bezels, screw-down crowns and case backs, and intense luminescence for underwater legibility. The automatic L888 movement provides reliable timekeeping across multiple size options. The collection balances professional functionality with contemporary style.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 32mm - 44mm
  • Caliber: L888 automatic caliber, RENATA 371 Quartz
  • Materials: Steel, ceramic, yellow PVD coating
  • Features: 300m WR, double safety folding clasp
  • Retail: $1,100 - $4,150
  • Pre-owned: $700 - $3,200

HydroConquest GMT

The HydroConquest GMT integrates travel functionality with professional diving capabilities through a sophisticated dual-time system. The ceramic bezel and robust case maintain the collection's diving heritage while adding practical timezone tracking. Enhanced legibility comes through carefully designed hands and markers that distinguish between primary and secondary time displays.

The L844 GMT movement powers these modern tool watches while maintaining the 300m water resistance standard. Multiple size options and colorways allow for personal preference, while the bracelet system provides both diving extension and refined comfort for daily wear. Each detail serves both practical function and contemporary style.

Key Features:

  • Size: 41mm, 43mm
  • Caliber: L844 GMT automatic
  • Materials: Steel, ceramic bezels
  • Features: 300m WR, dual-time
  • Retail: $2,975 - $2,675
  • Pre-owned: $2,000 - $2,300

Spirit Collection

The Longines Spirit collection draws inspiration from historical aviation timepieces while incorporating modern chronometer-certified movements and contemporary materials. Launched in 2020, these watches blend heritage design elements with up-to-date technical specifications. Every model undergoes COSC certification, demonstrating a commitment to precision that aligns with the requirements of early aviation instruments.

Spirit Zulu Time

Longines Spirit Zulu Time

The Zulu Time enhances the Spirit aesthetic with GMT functionality for international travelers. The advanced L844.4 movement offers independent hour hand adjustment while maintaining chronometer certification, complemented by a bidirectional 24-hour bezel for tracking a second time zone. Applied Arabic numerals and diamond-shaped indices maintain clear legibility across time zones.

This modern traveler's watch integrates vintage-inspired elements like stepped cases and box sapphire crystals with contemporary features. The 39mm to 42mm case options house advanced anti-magnetic protection and robust water resistance, while the bracelet system includes quick-change functionality for easy strap swapping during travel. Some pieces even offer micro adjustment capability for the perfect fit.

Key Features:

  • Size: 39mm - 42mm
  • Caliber: L844.4 GMT COSC
  • Materials: Steel, Titanium, ceramic bezel, 18 kt yellow gold cap
  • Features: Dual time zone
  • Retail: $3,050 - $4,550
  • Pre-owned: $1,900 - $3,500

Spirit Flyback

The Spirit Flyback introduces sophisticated chronograph functionality through the L791 movement. This automatic caliber enables instant chronograph reset and restart through a single push, a feature historically valued by pilots. The design maintains the collection's aviation heritage while offering modern convenience.

Advanced materials include a ceramic bezel and silicon balance-springs, enhancing durability and precision. The 42mm case features alternating brushed and polished surfaces, while the dial balances chronograph subdials with the distinctive Spirit collection numerals and hands, all certified to chronometer standards.

Key Features:

  • Size: 42mm
  • Caliber: L791 automatic flyback
  • Materials: Steel, ceramic, 18 kt gold cap, titanium
  • Features: COSC
  • Retail: $4,450 - $6,500
  • Pre-owned: $3,600 - $5,200

Spirit Chronograph

Longines Spirit Chronograph

The Spirit Chronograph combines traditional pilot's watch aesthetics with modern chronograph functionality through the automatic L688.4 movement. The column-wheel mechanism delivers precise chronograph operation while maintaining COSC certification standards. Applied Arabic numerals and diamond-shaped indices create depth on the dial while ensuring optimal legibility.

This chronograph integrates anti-magnetic silicon components and robust construction that exceeds typical requirements. The 42mm case features alternating finishes and the sapphire crystal includes multi-layer anti-reflective coating for clear visibility in varying conditions.

Key Features:

  • Size: 42mm
  • Caliber: L688.4 COSC
  • Materials: Steel, titanium
  • Features: Column-wheel chrono
  • Retail: $3,225 - $4,050
  • Pre-owned: $2,200 - $3,000

Elegance Collection

The Elegance Collection emphasizes refined design through classical proportions and traditional finishing techniques. These watches span from rectangular art deco-inspired pieces to round dress watches, each maintaining distinctive character while offering contemporary reliability. The collection serves both men and women through varied sizes and sophisticated complications.

Mini DolceVita

The Mini DolceVita translates art deco aesthetics into compact rectangular cases suited for smaller wrists. The design emphasizes vertical lines through elongated Roman numerals and structured case shapes, while maintaining elegant proportions that reference historical rectangular watches from the 1920s art deco period.

The quartz movements allow for slim case profiles while ensuring reliable timekeeping for daily wear. Multiple dial variations include silver, white, blue, ivory, green, and mother-of-pearl options, complemented by both bracelet and leather strap choices that enhance versatility for various occasions.

Key Features:

  • Size: 21.5 x 29mm
  • Movement: Quartz
  • Materials: Steel, 18k yellow gold, 18k pink gold
  • Features: Art deco design
  • Retail: $1,600 - $25,000
  • Pre-owned: $800 - $3,00+

DolceVita

Longines DolceVita Collection

The Longines DolceVita collection expands on art deco principles through larger rectangular cases that maintain elegant proportions. These watches blend historical design elements with modern finishing techniques, creating distinctive timepieces that stand apart from conventional round cases. The vertical emphasis extends through elongated hour markers and structured case shapes that echo architectural elements.

Multiple size options and complications enhance the collection's versatility, from simple time-only models to those featuring small seconds or diamond settings. Each variation maintains the refined character of the original design while incorporating modern materials and movements that ensure reliable daily wear.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 17.7x27mm - 28.2x47mm
  • Movement: Quartz, automatic options
  • Materials: Steel, 18 kt yellow gold, 18 kt pink gold, diamonds
  • Features: Rectangle design
  • Retail: $1,425 - $9,050
  • Pre-owned: $500 - $6,000

Primaluna

The Primaluna collection offers refined feminine design through carefully considered proportions and elegant details. Round cases feature smooth, flowing lines complemented by curved hour markers and sophisticated dial treatments. The collection spans from simple three-hand models to moon phase complications, each maintaining graceful aesthetics.

Multiple case sizes provide options for different preferences, while diamond setting variations range from subtle to elaborate. The automatic and quartz movements allow for varied price points while maintaining consistency in design language and finishing quality across the collection.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 26.5mm - 34mm
  • Movement: Quartz, automatic
  • Materials: Steel, yellow gold cap, pink gold cap, diamonds, Mother of Pearl dial options
  • Features: Moonphase options, Ladies' specific design
  • Retail: $1,175 - $4,150
  • Pre-owned: $600 - $3,500

Flagship

Longines Elegance Flagship

The Flagship collection draws on a heritage dating back to the late 1950’s, offering classical dress watch aesthetics with modern reliability. The design emphasizes clean lines and balanced proportions through applied hour markers and traditional hands, while maintaining understated elegance that defines timeless dress watches. Multiple dial variations provide options from simple silver to complex sector patterns.

Contemporary automatic movements power these refined timepieces, which feature display casebacks revealing traditional finishing techniques. The collection spans various case sizes and materials, from stainless steel to gold variants, each maintaining the sophisticated character that has defined Flagship models for over six decades.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 26mm - 40mm
  • Automatic Caliber: L888, L592
  • Materials: Steel, yellow/red gold PVD coating options
  • Features: Display back
  • Retail: $1,175 - $4,150
  • Pre-owned: $1,000 - $3,000

Evidenza

The Evidenza collection reimagines tonneau case shapes through modern interpretations of early 20th-century design. These distinctive cases feature curved profiles that conform comfortably to the wrist while maintaining elegant proportions. The combination of curved crystals and carefully planned dial layouts creates depth without compromising legibility.

Automatic movements power these models, visible through exhibition casebacks that showcase mechanical finishing. Available complications include time and date displays, while dial options range from classic silver deep blue to intricate guilloche patterns that enhance the collection's vintage-inspired character.

Key Features:

  • Size: 26x30.6mm, 33.1x38.75mm
  • Movement: Automatic
  • Materials: Steel, 18 kt pink gold
  • Features: Tonneau case
  • Retail: $2,125 - $7,175
  • Pre-owned: $1,000 - $6,500

Record

Longines Record Stainless Steel on Leather Strap

The Record collection represents technical achievement through COSC-certified chronometer movements equipped with silicon balance-springs. Each timepiece undergoes rigorous testing to ensure exceptional accuracy, while maintaining classical design elements through applied indices and traditional hands. The collection spans various complications while maintaining chronometer certification across all models.

Contemporary case sizes and multiple dial options provide versatility for modern wear, while clear sapphire casebacks display the certified movements. The attention to chronometric performance combines with careful finishing techniques on cases, dials, and bracelets to create timepieces that balance precision with refined aesthetics.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 26mm - 40mm
  • Caliber: L888.4 COSC, L592.4 COSC
  • Materials: Steel, 18 kt pink gold, 18 kt gold pink gold cap, diamonds
  • Features: Chronometer certified
  • Retail: $1,975 - $8,300
  • Pre-owned: $800 - $3,500

Elegant Collection

Longines Elegant Collection

The Longines Elegant collection focuses on refined simplicity through carefully considered proportions and classical design elements. These watches feature slim profiles and understated dials that incorporate traditional elements like applied markers and dauphine hands. The collection demonstrates how subtle details and precise execution can create lasting aesthetic appeal.

Automatic movements power most models, maintaining reliable performance while allowing for slim case designs. Multiple size options and material combinations, including diamond-set variants, provide choices for various preferences while maintaining the collection's core design philosophy of refined minimalism.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 25.5mm - 41mm
  • Movement: Automatic, Quartz
  • Materials: Steel, 18 kt pink gold, 18 kt pink gold cap, diamonds
  • Features: Slim profile, moonphase options, small second option
  • Retail: $1,350 - $7,750
  • Pre-owned: $900 - $5,000

La Grande Classique de Longines

La Grande Classique de Longines

The La Grande Classique collection emphasizes ultra-thin case design through specialized construction methods and automatic and quartz movement options. These watches achieve case heights as slim as 4.5mm by integrating the case and bracelet through a unique top-loading system. The design focuses on essential elements, creating timepieces that demonstrate elegance through minimalist execution.

Traditional dial layouts feature clean indices and slim hands that complement the collection's refined proportions. Available in multiple case sizes with options for diamond settings and various metal finishes, these watches maintain consistent design elements while offering flexibility for different style preferences and occasions.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 25.5mm - 41mm
  • Movement: Automatic, Quartz
  • Materials: Steel, 18 kt pink gold, 18k pink gold cap, diamonds. Mother of Pearl dial option
  • Features: Ultra-thin cases, moonphase options, small second options
  • Retail: $1,350 - $7,750
  • Pre-owned: $600 - $5,000

Longines Lyre

Longines Lyre

The Longines Lyre collection embodies the elegance and timeless appeal that Longines is renowned for. Named after the graceful shape of the lyre instrument, these watches feature smooth, flowing case designs that exude a classic aesthetic. The now-discontinued collection offers both quartz and automatic movements, catering to a wide range of preferences while maintaining refined simplicity.

The Lyre’s slender profile and minimalist dials make it an ideal dress watch, seamlessly blending modern functionality with traditional watchmaking craftsmanship. Available in various sizes and materials, the Lyre collection is versatile enough for any occasion, appealing to both men and women.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 25mm - 40mm
  • Movement: Quartz or automatic
  • Materials: Stainless steel, two-tone steel/gold PVD coating
  • Features: Date function, water resistance (30m)
  • Retail: Discontinued
  • Pre-owned: $500 - $1,500

Longines Symphonette

Longines Symphonette Collection

The Symphonette collection offers a modern take on classic elegance with its distinctive oval-shaped cases and luxurious details. Designed primarily for women, the Longines Symphonette stands out with its harmonious blend of sophistication and contemporary style. The polished cases, often paired with diamond accents, create a refined look perfect for formal occasions.

Equipped with precise quartz movements, the Symphonette prioritizes reliability and ease of use. Its beautifully finished dials, featuring Roman numerals or mother-of-pearl options, enhance its feminine charm. The collection’s emphasis on elegant design and wearable comfort makes it a standout in Longines’ portfolio of dress watches.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 18.9mm x 29.4mm, 21.9mm x 34mm
  • Movement: Quartz
  • Materials: Stainless steel, diamond-set bezels available
  • Features: Oval case, Roman numerals, mother-of-pearl dials
  • Retail: Discontinued
  • Pre-owned: $900 - $2,500

Heritage Collection

The Longines Heritage reinterprets significant historical models through modern manufacturing capabilities and contemporary sizing. These watches maintain authentic design elements from the archives while incorporating updated movements and materials. Each model tells a specific story from Longines' extensive watchmaking history, spanning aviation, diving, and dress watches.

Longines Legend Diver

Longines Legend Diver

The Longines Legend Diver recreates a significant 1960s diving watch with faithful attention to original design elements. The distinctive super-compressor case construction features dual crowns - one for the time setting and another for the internal rotating bezel. Modern updates include increased water resistance and automatic movement while maintaining vintage aesthetic appeal.

Contemporary technical specifications enhance the historical design through sapphire crystals and improved sealing systems. The dial design preserves characteristic elements like painted luminous markers and crosshair details, creating a perfect balance between heritage and modern functionality.

Key Features:

  • Size: 36mm - 42mm
  • Caliber: L888 automatic
  • Materials: Steel, bronze, PVD coating
  • Features: Internal rotating bezel
  • Retail: $2,400 - $3,400
  • Pre-owned: $1,500 - $2,500

Ultra-Chron

The Ultra-Chron revives high-frequency movement technology from the 1960s through a modern 36,000 vph caliber. This high-beat movement delivers exceptional accuracy while maintaining historical design elements from the original Ultra-Chron models. The distinctive case architecture and dial layout closely follow the historical reference while incorporating modern manufacturing standards.

The modern interpretation features enhanced water resistance and anti-magnetic properties beyond the original specifications. Contemporary case finishing combines brushed and polished surfaces with a box sapphire crystal, while the movement achieves chronometric performance that matches historical high-frequency objectives.

Key Features:

  • Size: 43mm
  • Caliber: L836
  • Materials: Steel
  • Features: 36,000 vph
  • Retail: $3,325 - $3,600
  • Pre-owned: $2,200 - $3,300

Pilot Majetek

The Pilot Majetek recreates a distinctive 1935 aviation timepiece developed for aviation use. The unique case design features an external rotating bezel operated through a side crown, maintaining historical functionality while upgrading technical specifications. The dial preserves characteristic cathedral hands and vintage-style numerals that defined early pilot watches.

Modern updates include enhanced anti-magnetic protection and water resistance while respecting the original aesthetic. The automatic movement provides reliable timekeeping, housed in a case that faithfully reproduces distinctive elements like the cushion shape and external rotating system from historical reference.

Key Features:

  • Size: 43mm
  • Caliber: L893 automatic
  • Materials: Steel, Titanium
  • Features: External bi-directional rotating bezel, small seconds
  • Retail: $3,750 - $5,000
  • Pre-owned: $2,500 - $4,300

Conquest Heritage

Longines Conquest Heritage

The Conquest Heritage draws inspiration from the original 1950’s Conquest line, focusing on clean design and refined execution. The collection maintains characteristic elements like the applied gold medallion on the caseback, while incorporating modern automatic movements. These watches demonstrate how subtle vintage elements can enhance contemporary timepieces.

The modern interpretation features upgraded technical specifications through sapphire crystals and improved water resistance. Multiple dial variations and the newest power reserve models offer sector patterns, applied indices, and a power reserve indicator that offers contemporary updates, all the while referencing historical models. These watches maintain clarity through careful proportions and finishing techniques that meet current luxury standards.

Key Features:

  • Size: 38mm, 40mm
  • Automatic Calibers: L888, L896
  • Materials: Steel
  • Features: Heritage medallion 18k gold, power reserve indicator option
  • Retail: $2,275 - $3,800
  • Pre-owned: $1,000 - $3,000

Flagship Heritage

Flagship Heritage

The Flagship Heritage collection revives design elements from the 1957 Flagship models with careful attention to period details. The watches feature distinctive applied hour markers and dauphine hands that characterized the original series, while dial designs maintain vintage sector patterns that enhance the classical appeal.

Modern automatic movements power these recreations, which balance historical aesthetics with contemporary reliability. The collection spans various case materials and dial finishes, each maintaining the refined character that made the original Flagship models significant in the dress watch category.

Key Features:

  • Size: 38.5mm
  • Automatic Calibers: L615, L899
  • Materials: Steel, 18k Gold (discontinued models)
  • Features: Period-correct design, Moonphase option, 18k gold medallion
  • Retail: $1,900 - $3,050
  • Pre-owned: $1,000 - $6,200

Longines Avigation

Longines Avigation

The Avigation series recreates purpose-built aviation timepieces from different historical periods. These models feature distinctive elements like oversized crowns and high-contrast dials that characterized early pilot watches. Modern manufacturing enables precise recreation of historical details while improving durability and reliability.

Technical updates include enhanced anti-magnetic protection and water resistance beyond original specifications. The collection spans various historical references, from early navigation watches to specialized chronographs, each maintaining authentic design elements while incorporating contemporary movement technology.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 41mm, 47.5mm
  • Automatic Movements: L688 chronograph, L699
  • Materials: Steel, titanium, 18k pink gold
  • Features: Tri-compax chronograph, synchronization feature of the seconds hand with radio time signal, 24-hour scale, equation of time bezel 
  • Retail: $3,000 - $4,500
  • Pre-owned: $2,000 - $3,500

Longines Column-Wheel

Longines Column-Wheel

The Longines Column-Wheel chronographs were a standout within the Heritage collection, celebrated for their use of the prestigious column-wheel chronograph mechanism. This feature, often reserved for high-end mechanical timepieces, allowed for smoother pusher operation and precise functionality, showcasing Longines' dedication to horological craftsmanship.

These models featured vintage aesthetics, such as bicompax or tricompax chronograph layouts, tachymeter scales, and blued hands. Powered by the automatic L705.2 movement, the Column-Wheel chronographs were a testament to Longines’ ability to marry traditional watchmaking techniques with modern reliability.

However, the Column-Wheel chronographs appear to have been discontinued, as they are no longer listed on Longines' official website. While unavailable for retail purchase, pre-owned models remain highly sought after by collectors who value their blend of classic design and advanced mechanical features.

Key Features:

  • Sizes: 39mm, 41mm
  • Movement: L705.2 automatic column-wheel chronograph
  • Materials: Stainless steel, sapphire crystal
  • Features: 48-hour power reserve, chronograph function, vintage-inspired design
  • Retail: Discontinued
  • Pre-owned: $1,500 - $5,000
About Bob's Watches Editorial

Paul AltieriWith over two decades of experience in the luxury watch industry, the Bob's Watches Editorial Team stands at the forefront of watch expertise and insight. Our team, composed of seasoned watch enthusiasts, skilled horologists, and knowledgeable industry insiders, is dedicated to bringing you the latest and most accurate information in the world of luxury timepieces. We pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail and our unwavering commitment to authenticity. Our editorial content is a reflection of our passion for luxury watches and our dedication to providing our readers with comprehensive, unbiased, and up-to-date information. Our expertise spans a wide range of topics, including in-depth reviews of the latest models, historical retrospectives of iconic timepieces, and insightful analyses of market trends. We are also renowned for our detailed guides on watch maintenance and investment advice, making us a trusted resource for both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts alike. As thought leaders in the watch industry, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. That's why we continually update our knowledge and skills, ensuring that our readers receive the most current and relevant information. Whether you're seeking advice on your next luxury watch purchase or looking to deepen your understanding of watch craftsmanship, the Bob's Watches Editorial Team is here to guide you.

Table of Contents