The Longines Spirit, launched in 2020, and the now-classic diver's watch, the HydroConquest. These two sports watches that Longines is proud of are also multi-purpose watches that can be used in any situation. What is the appeal of this genre of watch that is rapidly gaining popularity?
Interview and text by Yuto Hosoda (Chronos-Japan)
Article published in the May 2021 issue of Kronos Japan
A multi-purpose watch from the prestigious Saint-Imier brand
Longines is a prestigious watch manufacturer based in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Founded in 1832 by Auguste Agassiz, the company has remained at the forefront of specialized watchmaking for nearly 200 years. While the company produced many masterpieces of hand-wound chronograph movements, such as the calibers 13ZN and 30CH, it shifted direction from the 1970s onward, focusing on the development of quartz watches. In 1984, it released the 276VPH, a high-precision quartz watch with an annual accuracy of ±10 seconds. The company's strength lies in its flexibility, which allows it to understand and incorporate the needs of the times.
Longines' current specialty is multi-purpose watches, which have seen a rise in demand in recent years. These watches combine the versatile functionality of a sports watch with a basic design that can be worn in any situation.
The new Longines Spirit collection, launched in 2020, truly deserves to be called a multi-purpose watch. Its all-around performance is undeniable. The automatic caliber L888.4, which is COSC-certified for high precision, features a silicon balance spring, ensuring anti-magnetic properties. In terms of ease of use, the luminous indices and long, graduated second and minute hands ensure excellent legibility, while the large, onion-shaped crown, a remnant of the days when pilots operated the watch while wearing gloves, makes it easy to operate.
The sunray-finish blue dial gives a refreshing impression. In addition to the model shown, the lineup also includes a matte-finish silver dial model and a lacquered black dial model. Automatic winding (Cal. L888.4). 21 jewels. 25,200 vph. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 40mm, thickness 12.20mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 272,800 yen.
At first glance, the design appears to be a classic pilot's watch with its extensive use of satin finishes, but upon closer inspection, it is surprisingly modern thanks to the polished edges of the case and lugs. The result is a highly versatile style that can be worn in any situation.
Speaking of multi-purpose models from Longines, the HydroConquest is also not to be missed. This is a full-fledged diver's watch with a water resistance of 300m, but with a case diameter of 41mm and a thickness of 11.90mm, it is small for a watch of this genre. With the robust case and convenient size typical of a diver's watch, and a design that is not too flashy, it can be said to be a multi-purpose watch.
Although it's a full-fledged diver's watch, its compact case and monotone color scheme make it versatile enough to be worn in any situation. The balance spring in this Cal. L888 is made of Nivarox, not silicon. Automatic (Cal. L888). 21 jewels. 25,200 vph. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 41mm, thickness 11.90mm). Water resistant to 30 bar. Price: 209,000 yen.
There are surprisingly few watches that can be worn in any situation. Even watch enthusiasts with extensive collections should have the option of adding one of these highly versatile models to their collection. Of course, given the current situation, these are also undoubtedly the perfect choice for new users considering purchasing their first mechanical watch.
Longines Spring Campaign
To support those starting new lives in the spring, whether it be through employment, promotion, or a career change, Longines is holding the "Longines Spring Campaign" at Longines stores nationwide until Tuesday, April 20th. Customers who purchase campaign-eligible products, including the Longines Spirit, during the campaign period will receive original Longines merchandise as a gift.
● Period: Until Tuesday, April 20th
●Stores: Longines stores nationwide
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