Hands-on review of the Longines Spirit Zulu Time! Its compact titanium case complements everyday wear

This is a hands-on review of the Longines Spirit Zulu Time, a new addition to the brand's 2024 collection, featuring a 39mm grade 5 titanium case. Equipped with a high-spec GMT movement in a compact and lightweight case, this model embodies Longines' pioneering spirit and is an excellent sports watch for everyday use.

The Longines Spirit Collection: Inheriting the Spirit of Adventure

　This time, we will be sharing our impressions of the latest model from the Longines Spirit collection, released by Longines in 2020, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time, which is equipped with a GMT function.

　Located at the core of the Swatch Group, Longines has a foundation of high-quality watchmaking that leverages the group's expertise and economies of scale, while preserving the traditions of a long-established brand founded over 190 years ago. When it comes to Longines, many people will think of the numerous reissue models that make use of these traditions.

　In contrast, the Longines Spirit collection was created with a different approach than reproduction watches. It embodies the spirit of the pioneers who explored land, sea, and air with Longines watches, paving the way for the future of mankind. Unlike reproduction watches that are modeled after, the design is constructed by extracting the essence of past masterpieces and skillfully combining them. Although it has its origins in the past, it is based on the idea of ​​learning from the past to create something new by assimilating them.

　The Spirit, which was born in this way, is characterized by its high expandability, as there is no original. Since its launch in 2020, not only have variations in case size and coloring been released, but also models with complex mechanisms such as chronographs, flyback chronographs, and GMTs have been released, and now, four years after its launch, it is recognized as one of Longines' main collections.

　This time, we will be looking at a small 39mm titanium case model equipped with a GMT function. It embodies the spirit of Longines, where the past and present intertwine. We would like to explore its appeal.

A three-dimensional dial that combines a tool-like feel with a luxurious feel

　Let's start by looking at the dial. According to the brand, the dial color is anthracite. It's a color that many brands are using these days, but each company has their own unique style. In this case, it leans slightly black, with a subtle gray that emerges depending on the light. Also, while other brands often use a sunray finish on their anthracite-colored dials, this model has a finely textured surface, giving it a matte finish.

　The highly legible design is modeled after a pilot's watch. However, it is not overly practical and stiff; rather, it incorporates the characteristics of a pilot's watch while incorporating elaborate details befitting a luxury watch. The watch is dotted with decorative elements, such as the three-dimensional Arabic numeral indexes with gold-colored borders and the stepped, similarly gold-colored minute circle, and the seconds hand that extends to the edge of the dial creates a sense of tension befitting a high-precision watch. The luminous paint applied to the indexes and hands appears slightly yellowish, but does not suggest discoloration over time, and instead exudes a warmth that matches the gold.

　This model features a GMT function, allowing the time in up to three time zones to be displayed simultaneously, along with the 24-hour display on the rotating bezel. The GMT hand features a red tip, ensuring functionality while minimizing clutter on the dial. The bezel insert is made of scratch-resistant ceramic. The gray color indicates daytime and the black color indicates nighttime, making for intuitive reading.

　At the 6 o'clock position are five stars symbolizing high precision and a date display. The date disc is gold on a black background, matching the dial color. "ZULU TIME" is printed in red above the five stars, contrasting with the red GMT hand and ensuring that the color of the function and display match.

An edgy, modern grade 5 titanium case

　The case is made of grade 5 titanium. Grade 5 titanium is a type of titanium alloy often used in luxury watches, and is characterized by its ease of application of polished and satin finishes. Grade 2 titanium, which is pure titanium, has excellent properties such as light weight, hypoallergenicity, and corrosion resistance, but it is difficult to give it a luxurious finish, so each brand generally uses different titanium depending on the characteristics of each model. This model, made of grade 5 titanium, allows you to enjoy the combination of polished and satin finishes and sharp, chamfered edges.

　The overall design is dominated by a satin finish. The case sides, top surfaces of the lugs, and even the case back all have a slightly rough satin finish, with a line of polish added to the chamfered edges of the lugs. The tips of the lugs have a design that looks as if they have been cut off. This creates a sharp, firm, and manly look.

　The crown is slightly larger and conical. It was not uncommon for pilot watches of the past to have large crowns so that pilots could operate them easily even while wearing gloves. This design follows that tradition, and of course it still functions well today.

　The case back, which is engraved with a large globe and the brand logo, is secured in place with six screws. In terms of water resistance alone, a screw back would be advantageous. However, the decision to use screws was likely made to align the engraving directly with the case and to reduce the overall thickness. At first glance, the watch has the spirit of a traditional sports watch. However, if you look closely, you will see that it is dotted with elements that subtly break with that theory and emphasize "elegance," a value that the company holds dear.

　The bracelet is also made from the same grade 5 titanium as the case. It's a sporty three-link design, with some polished sections to match the case perfectly. The buckle is sturdy, but the fine-tuning mechanism leaves something to be desired. It's a reliable, old-fashioned system where the spring bars are inserted through five horizontal holes on the side to fine-tune the fit. Considering that watches in this price range with fine-tuning mechanisms that don't require tools are not uncommon, this isn't particularly impressive. The rows of holes on the side of the buckle also lack a stylish look. It's a shame that they stand out a little, especially considering the impeccable construction of the case.

　On the other hand, I'm glad that it has an interchangeable system. By pressing the convex button on the back of the bow clip, the internal spring bar contracts, allowing it to be separated from the case. Not only is it easy to remove, but it also looks good because the spring bar is not exposed. It takes some force to press the button, so it's unlikely to fall off accidentally.

GMT movement for easy time zone adjustment

　This watch is equipped with the Cal. L844.4, an exclusive movement developed exclusively for Longines. It has COSC-certified chronometer status, and as the five stars on the dial indicate, it boasts exceptional precision. It also features a silicon balance spring, making it resistant to magnetism.

　Because it is equipped with a GMT function, the operation method is slightly different from that of a three-hand movement. Simply release the screw-down crown and wind the mainspring. Pull it out once to adjust the hour hand independently, or pull it out twice to adjust the time. To adjust the date, pull the hour hand out once to advance or retreat one day. The conical crown provides a smooth feel when turning or pulling it out.

　Adjusting the time difference is also easy. For example, if you are traveling to New York, the time difference is 13 hours. Simply pull the hour hand back 13 hours with the watch pulled one notch, and you can set the time to the local time without stopping the second hand. In this case, the GMT hand will not move and will continue to indicate Japan time, which is the time at your home country.

Titanium exterior provides a lightweight feel

　The titanium case and bracelet make the watch extremely light to wear. If you take your eyes off it for a while, you'll completely forget that you're wearing a watch that's over 13mm thick. If I had to say something, the bracelet links seem a little sharp, but the satin-finished case back feels smooth against the skin, making it a stress-free watch to wear. Due to the base movement, the automatic winding rotor is a little loud, but unless you listen very closely, it probably won't bother you when wearing it.

　The 39mm case is a little small for a sports watch with a rotating bezel, but it still has a definite presence. One reason for this is the gold color scattered across the dial, which adds a softness and elegance to the dial, which incorporates the rugged design of a pilot's watch. The subtle luxury and modernity exuded by the three-dimensional stepped dial and sharp case sets this watch apart from classic pilot's watches.

　Visibility and readability are exceptionally high. The matte anthracite dial, gold-colored edging, and luminous paint create a high contrast, allowing you to instantly determine the position of the hands. The hands, which extend firmly toward the indexes and scales, also contribute to accurate time reading.

A modern pilot's watch with a pioneering spirit

　This watch is undoubtedly an excellent choice, combining a comfortable, easy-to-read, and practical movement with a robust exterior. However, its greatest appeal lies in its unique character. At first glance, it appears to be a classic pilot's watch, but if you look closely, you'll see that it has been refined into a model worthy of being a modern luxury watch, while retaining its distinctive features.

　With a pioneering spirit, Longines has developed highly functional and reliable pilot watches, contributing to the exploits of adventurers. However, in today's world, adventure is not just about reaching uncharted territory. The gateway to adventure lies hidden in the midst of everyday life, both in private and business. The Longines spirit gently accompanies us in our daily lives, sometimes igniting our hearts and inviting us to unseen worlds.