Pietro Pila
Longines occupies an important position in the luxury watch lineup, with a long and rich history, excellent products and the right balance of value for money. Over the past 12 months, the Swiss maison has really stepped up to the plate, offering a wide range of watches from sports models to more elegant watches that have covered us in style in every situation this year. They also decided to release a surprise hit at the end of the year, which could be the brand’s strongest release in recent times, but more on that later.
Longines Master Engraved 34mm
These special dial variations were introduced into the Master Collection in 2022 to commemorate the company’s 190th anniversary. When first released, it was originally housed in a 40mm case, and while the proportions were great, the delicate Breguet numerals may have made it too large for the type of watch it was designed for. yeah.
A second release followed the following year with a more compact 38.5mm case, and finally this 34mm version arrived in 2024, with both steel and two-tone cases available. I think it’s probably aimed at a female audience since it comes in all three sizes, but I think this is my preference. The woodgrain engraved dial is great in all variations, but it’s the way the movement sits in the 34mm case and the slightly thinner profile on the sides that makes all the difference for me. Price: $2,425
Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase
Let’s move into another area, which is a staple of Longines products. The dressier side of this brand has always been a favorite of mine, although my tastes may have changed a bit these days as they offer a wider variety. The only problem was that (aside from the special edition) the colors were pretty muted.
When I first received the press release for these Moonphase models, I was surprised and very happy to see them come in these special colorways. And it’s not just the color, but how it’s expressed on the dial that matters. A deep sunburst finish of green, brown, and gray creates a shimmering effect as you turn the clock, bringing the entire piece to life. The enamelled medallion on the back is another small detail that shows the brand’s thoughtfulness. Price: $3,050
longines legend diver
This is not a new model or new size. However, it introduced new colors to a collection that is very traditional for the brand. The Legend Diver has been around since 1959, but was primarily offered in black or blue tones. This year, the collection expands its horizons with the addition of dials in terracotta, green and anthracite tones. In 2023, a 39mm case dimension was added between 42mm and 36mm. This, along with additional colorways, will definitely add real depth to your collection.
Then throw in a COSC movement and Beads of Rice bracelet for just the right amount of vintage, and you’ve got the perfect combination of history and modern looks. When something is working, there is no need to change it. This is the proof. Price: $3,400
Longines Spirit Zulu Time Titanium
Longines has played a big role in the history of GMT (Zulu Time) watches, and with this last model, it seems like Longines has no intention of leaving that territory. When the GMT model was added to the Spirit collection in 2022, everyone wondered how they could improve on an already great model. Well, they improved it to a more ergonomic 39mm case size in 2023, but it wasn’t finished. This year, the company introduced a titanium version of its 39mm diameter case, resulting in one of the most successful watches of the year (at least in the GMT category). Not only was the case on point, but the dial design had just the right amount of detail and vintage feel to add personality without being overpowering.
This is a watch that is exactly what it is. This doesn’t mean it’s the perfect watch for everyone, but if you’re looking for a true GMT with a strong identity, this has you covered. Price: $4,275
longines ultrachron carbon
Finally, we present the newest (and boldest) release of this selection. In 2022, the first re-release of this 1968 model was launched to great success. Just before the end of the year, a new collection was added, featuring a carbon and titanium case, a first for Longines. The brand took everything that worked in previous models and gave it the modern twist it was missing. For those who asked about water resistance, yes, it’s still 300 meters (80 grams lighter).
Now, this is clearly not a watch for everyone, but it does its job perfectly. The carbon’s stealthy, futuristic look keeps it up with the times, just as the original model did in the ’60s. Price: $4,900
