Longines is a brand with a rich history, and in many fields. One that stands out above the others is the field of aviation watches, a type of watch that has long been dear to the brand and where the winged hourglass has excelled, putting its instruments on the wrist of many pioneers. A classic pilot’s watch that combines old-school design cues with a contemporary execution, available in multiple editions, with several colours, sizes and movements, the Longines Spirit collection is once more expanding this year, with a cool edition combining vintage elements with technical conception. Meet the new Longines Spirit Titanium Collection.
Founded in 1832 in Saint-Imier in the Swiss Jura, Longines became renowned for its reliable and precise timing instruments, which would become the brand’s hallmark. With the advent of military and civilian aviation and thus the need for pilots to rely on precise timekeeping instruments, the brand would become one of the most coveted manufacturers for pioneering aviators. Charles Lindbergh is the most illustrious name associated with Longines, but more explorers and pilots, pioneers of their own kind, also wore Longines watches, such as Amelia Earhart or Howard Hughes. The Spirit collection pays tribute to this rich history of aviation watches.
Currently, the collection comprises stainless steel models, available either with a time-and-date display – in 40mm and in 42mm – but also a chronograph. In addition to the inaugural black, blue and silver dials, the brand also added a cool-looking green dial to the collection recently. Now, it is time for a watch that combines sportier materials and even more retro-looking elements to surface, with its titanium case and warm dial design.
While not changing the entire concept behind the Spirit collection, Longines introduces colour and display updates with the new titanium models. Available for the time being on the 3-hand model only, yet in 40 and 42mm editions, the Longines Spirit Titanium retains the same design and finishing for the case, mixing brushed surfaces with polished accents on the sides of the lug and the bezel. The case and the screwed caseback are made of grade 5 titanium, providing lightness on the wrist. The case also retains its 100m water-resistance.
Still, a very nice watch with presence and a certain refinement, the addition of titanium not only brings extra comfort but a different shine from stainless steel, making these editions somewhat unique. It has a slightly more contemporary look, specifically when worn on the matching brushed and polished titanium bracelet, closed by a folding clasp with safety push-pieces. For a more casual and relaxed look, these Longines Spirit Titanium watches are also available on an anthracite woven nylon strap with a titanium buckle. Both options are equipped with an interchangeable system so that you can change the bracelet or the strap without the need for tools.
While the case looks more technical, Longines has chosen a dial that looks more retro than ever for the collection. Even though it retains the overall design of previous editions, the dial now displays an anthracite sandblasted surface in the centre, with a satin-finish black flange. The applied numerals and the hands, generously filled with Super-LumiNova, as well as the 5 stars and hourglass logo, are coated in a subtle 1N gold colour. And most of all, these versions have a no-date display, a first for the collection.
Below the caseback is the automatic Longines L888.4 calibre (a.k.a ETA A31.L11), displaying the hours, minutes and seconds. Exclusive to the brand, this movement is a noteworthy element of differentiation compared to many watches at this price level. 25.60mm in diameter, it ticks at 25,200 vibrations per hour, and the balance spring is silicon, thus providing protection against magnetic fields. Furthermore, its precision is certified by the COSC, the official Swiss chronometer testing institute. Last, it comes with a healthy 72-hour power reserve.
The Longines Spirit Titanium watches will soon be available from retailers and the brand’s website and priced at EUR 2,550 on a strap and EUR 2,950 on a bracelet. For more details, please visit longines.com.