Once you wear it, you'll be hooked! The salmon pink dial of the "Longines Master Collection" is a masterpiece watch that makes a great snack.

Since its introduction, the small seconds model from the Longines Master Collection has continued to capture the hearts of watch enthusiasts. This time, I wore the particularly popular salmon pink dial model, Ref. L2.843.4.93.2. Every detail of this watch is a treat for any watch lover, and it is so well-made.

The Longines Master Collection: A classic modern watch created by a master of reproduction watches

　Longines, a prestigious brand from Saint-Imier, has long been at the forefront of the Swiss watch industry, producing many masterpieces. I have often cited the existence of reissue models that make use of the company's extensive archives as one of its strengths.

　Classic watches are digitized using 3D scanners and then updated to modern standards before being released. While this may seem simple given the original watch, updating them is a daunting task, even with the support of discerning watch enthusiasts. In fact, even Longines' reissue models used to have many flaws, such as the presence or absence of a date display or the position of the small seconds hand.

　However, the company addressed this issue by listening to its enthusiasts and bringing in a die-hard Longines fanatic to head its Heritage department, which is why there are no gaps or compromises in Longines' reissues today.

　Longines has now taken the know-how it has gained from producing reproduction models and taken on a new challenge: the Longines Master Collection 190th Anniversary Model, which was announced in 2022 to commemorate the 190th anniversary of its founding.

　Rather than reproducing a specific model, Longines has instead extracted design elements from numerous archive models. While it is a completely new watch with no original model, it still exudes a classic look that evokes nostalgia.

　Well, that was a long introduction, but the Longines Master Collection I'm wearing today is based on the 190th anniversary model and features a small seconds movement. This model is available in three dial colors: silver, salmon, and anthracite, and for my impressions I chose the salmon dial Ref. L2.843.4.93.2. All models are attractive, but this one is particularly eye-catching because of its trendy color.

The secret to the excellent fit is the short lugs and case diameter

　The first thing I noticed when I picked it up and put it on my wrist was that it had an exquisite size. The reason for this is clear: the case is small, measuring 38.5mm in diameter, and its thickness is kept to just 10.2mm. As you can see from the photo, the watch has short lugs, so its overall length is modest, measuring just 44.9mm. It fits comfortably on the wrist.

　Incidentally, shortening the lugs and reducing the overall length to improve comfort is a recent trend. In the case of watches from the 1950s and 60s, such as those evoked by this piece, the lugs would have accounted for a larger proportion of the overall length of the case, meaning the case would have been smaller in diameter and the lugs would have been longer accordingly.

　If you're a fan of classic watches, this might be a point of contention, but the short lugs are what make this a truly modern watch, not a reproduction.

At first glance, the classic index is a crystallization of the latest technology

　The Longines Master Collection also has another feature that symbolizes its latest collection: the Arabic numeral indexes. At first glance, the deeply engraved indexes look like classic hand engraving. However, as you might imagine from the price of 378,400 yen, they are not engraved by hand by a craftsman, but are actually made by a micromachining machine.

　It is not possible to engrave this deeply with a laser, and it is difficult to create the delicate curves seen in the "12" numerals with conventional CNC machines. What's more, there are no traces of cutting. In the past, indexes of this quality would have been impossible to achieve except by hand, by a skilled craftsman.

　In the watch world, there are a certain number of gentlemen who enjoy drinking alcohol while savoring a well-made watch. The "snacks" that accompany such drinks are mostly the chamfering and return angles of the movement, and the uniform polishing of the case, most of which are handcrafted. However, let me state clearly that although the indices of the Longines Master Collection are machine-engraved, they are drinkable.

　Additionally, each of the three Longines Master Collection models has a different dial finish, and the vertical graining that is only found on salmon dials is a result of the latest machine tools. It would be impossible to create such fine, uniform graining over such a long period by hand. This is also a detail that is only possible today, thanks to the use of micromachining machines.

The movement is solid and matches the character of the watch.

　Even just looking at the dial, there are many elements that make you want to stare at it. The Longines Master Collection is such a watch. And because it is designed to appeal to connoisseurs, it also uses a movement that is worthy of that design.

　The automatic movement, Cal. L893, is an improved and refinished version of ETA's Cal. A31.L21, specially for Longines. The base Cal. A31 series movement was originally the Cal. 2892A2, with a silicon balance spring and a slower vibration frequency to provide a longer power reserve.

　The Cal. L893 is a refinement of a good movement, and it's flawless and leaves a good impression. It's understated, and doesn't boast particularly outstanding specs or mechanisms. However, it's thin, has a usable power reserve, is reasonably accurate, and is resistant to magnetism. Even the feel of the hands is excellent!

　Considering the character of the watch, there is no need for an extravagant finish. Instead, it is well-packed with practical specs and operability at this price point, which is rather appealing. Since the highlight is focused on the exterior, the movement is sufficient. This balance is also one of Longines' strengths.

A watch that becomes a "knob" for those who know it

　I had always been interested in this Longines Master Collection watch, so as soon as I heard that Tsuruoka had borrowed it for an impression session, I took it from her and let her wear it for about a week. To be honest, I regret not wearing it. I never thought I would want it so much.

　During the event, whenever he met a watch enthusiast, he would ask to see the watch, and a small meet-up would be held. Hosoda was somehow proud of the watch, even though it wasn't his own. He wore it constantly for the past week, and was impressed every time he picked it up.

　The 30 yen price point is an affordable price for those who want to enter the world of luxury watches. I highly recommend this watch to anyone who wants to get a feel for what luxury watches are like. However, the Longines Master Collection, especially the salmon dial model, is best suited to those who have already owned a variety of luxury watches.

　As mentioned above, this watch is a must-have for anyone who can see the important points.