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Longines: The Art of Time Perfected Since 1832
Established in 1832 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, Longines stand as one of the most distinguished names in horology. Founded by Auguste Agassiz, they began as a small workshop, gradually evolving into a powerhouse of innovation and craftsmanship. Under the leadership of Ernest Francillon, the brand centralised production and embraced mechanisation, a revolutionary move that solidified their reputation for precision and consistency. The choice of the name Longines, inspired by the location of their factory on a field locally referred to as Les Longines, remains a symbol of their enduring heritage.
Longines are not only custodians of Swiss watchmaking tradition but also pioneers of precision. They have earned global recognition as the official timekeepers for prestigious sporting events and have remained faithful to their core values of elegance, performance, and innovation. Their iconic winged hourglass logo, registered in 1889, is now the oldest unchanged trademark in the watch industry, representing their unwavering commitment to excellence.
Collections by Longines
Longines are imbibed with a set of collections such as the Master, Elegance, Heritage, Conquest, and Spirit. These are hereby defined by their own personal characteristics like:
The Master Collection
Introduced in 2005, the Longines Master Collection is a definitive representation of the brand’s horological prowess. Dedicated exclusively to automatic movements, this collection merges classical aesthetics with advanced mechanical functionality. The timepieces feature intricate complications such as chronographs, moon phase displays, and retrograde indicators, highlighting their technical expertise. Whether through elegant three-hand models or multi-function designs, each piece reflects over 190 years of mastery in crafting timeless watches.
Elegance Collection
True to Longines’ philosophy of “Elegance is an Attitude”, the Elegance collection captures the essence of sophistication and style. Designed for both men and women, these watches offer refined designs that transcend passing trends. Models such as the La Grande Classique, DolceVita, and PrimaLuna epitomise understated luxury, blending clean lines with meticulous craftsmanship. The collection resonates with those who value simplicity and enduring beauty.
Heritage Collection
The Heritage collection honours Longines’ rich legacy by reimagining some of their most iconic designs. These timepieces serve as a bridge between the past and the present, combining vintage aesthetics with modern innovations. Notable models include the Legend Diver, a tribute to their 1960s diving watches, and the Pilot Majetek, a revival of early aviation timepieces. By preserving historical design elements while incorporating contemporary technology, Longines ensure that the Heritage line remains both visually striking and functionally superior.
Conquest Collection
Introduced in 1954, the Conquest collection marked Longines’ first official foray into named watch lines. Known for their sporty elegance and robust performance, the Conquest models reflect the brand’s focus on precision and durability. The HydroConquest series, in particular, caters to divers and sports enthusiasts, combining water resistance with striking design. Longines have carefully evolved this collection to incorporate modern materials and cutting-edge movements, ensuring it remains a benchmark of versatility and performance.
Spirit Collection
The Spirit collection pays tribute to Longines’ historical ties with pioneering aviators and adventurers. Drawing inspiration from traditional pilot’s watches, the Spirit timepieces combine vintage elements with state-of-the-art technology. Each model features COSC-certified chronometer movements equipped with silicon balance springs for superior accuracy and longevity. This collection embodies the spirit of exploration and precision, celebrating Longines’ role in accompanying legendary figures like Amelia Earhart and Howard Hughes on their groundbreaking journeys.