Longines has produced countless masterpieces, and its tradition continues in reproduction models

Longines has produced countless masterpieces over its 190-year history. Since the 1980s, the company has been working hard to reissue its extensive archive pieces. No one would dispute that Longines is a pioneer and leader in reissue watches. So, what is the secret behind this? This time, we would like to explore the traditions passed down through the company's reissue models, using the latest Longines Legend Diver and Conquest models as examples.

Heritage is in the details

　Longines is a long-established brand founded in 1832 and known for its mastery of revivals. Throughout its long history, the company has produced a number of epoch-making timepieces. These have not only brought about the evolution of timepieces, but also the outstanding reliability and functionality of its timepieces, bringing innovation to numerous fields, including aviation and sports timekeeping, and promoting the development of humanity. It is this illustrious history and its unwavering respect for the past that has helped build the company into what it is today.

　Among the company's reissue models, two that have been particularly long-selling are the Longines Legend Diver, which has been around since 2007, and the Conquest Heritage, which was released in 1997. What these two have in common is that since their initial reissue, they have continued to undergo model changes and expanded variations, resulting in repeated updates. It is interesting to note that the reissue method is not a reproduction of the past, but rather serves as an opportunity to create new value.

　This is particularly evident in the latest Longines Legend Diver, which was released last year, and this year's new Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve.

　The Longines Legend Diver features a design modeled on the diver's watch Ref. 7042, which was released in 1959. The function for measuring diving time is provided by a rotating inner bezel, and combined with the slender lugs and glossy lacquer dial, it shows an elegant appearance that is unusual for a diver's watch.

　On the other hand, its practicality is undeniable. The indexes combine Arabic numerals and bars. The three hands, each with a different shape, are coated with green or blue luminous paint, creating a contrast with the dial and improving visibility in the dark. The watch's excellent water resistance is also not to be overlooked. This model meets the ISO 6425 international standard, which defines the requirements for diver's watches, proving its capabilities.

　Combining a simple, elegant design with high practicality, this watch is the ideal all-rounder, easily covering everything from business to outdoor activities. The rotating inner bezel further expands its range of use. Simply by turning the crown, you can easily measure not only dive time, but also meeting, travel, and activity time. For busy modern people, this is a reliable mechanism that supports efficient time management.

　The Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve is based on the model that appeared in 59, one of the many Conquest models. The three-dimensional indexes and the date display at 12 o'clock are characteristic of the model, but what is particularly noteworthy is the circular power reserve indicator placed in the center.

　The symmetrical design of the indicator, consisting of a disk depicting the hands and a ring with a scale, gives it a very modern impression, making it hard to believe that it is a design from over half a century ago. The fact that the movement has been modified to recreate this mechanism shows the passion the company has for this revival.

　In today's world, watches are becoming increasingly long-lasting, and wearers are primarily engaged in desk work. This situation makes the benefits of a power reserve indicator, especially for automatic watches, even more pronounced. No matter how long the power reserve, if the watch isn't fully wound, it won't perform to its full potential. Even worse, misjudging the amount of winding can lead to the watch stopping unexpectedly. This watch's power reserve is approximately 72 hours. Being able to visualize the amount of winding allows you to fully utilize its potential.

　Learning from the past and passing on its traditions to the future. This is the role of Longines' reissue models. While the design and specifications are updated to suit the times, the core remains unchanged. Over 190 years of history lives on in the details.