Longines is a time-tested watchmaking company—ever since the beginning, the brand identifiable by its logo of a winged hourglass has produced timeless watches that are characterized by the traditions of Swiss horology. It has rarely been about the flash and the glamour for the company, focusing instead on simple yet elegant pieces. This is evident in the Longines Master Collection, one of the company’s contemporary series, that has seen success and admiration from watch enthusiasts and casual buyers alike.
Compare Longines Master Collection Watch Prices Online
Release date: 2005
Price: US$1,850+
The Master collection from Longines was first introduced in 2005, and was seen as an update to another of the company’s successful series, the Heritage collection. The former has in its repertoire various pieces to choose from, ranging from the smallest to the largest, and with differing sophistications as well. The Longines Master Collection Automatic has seen a subtle revamp in recent years in terms of features and appearance, offering clients more Longines to enjoy.
Specifications:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: Longines Calibre L619/L888
- Case size/thickness: 38.5mm/9.5mm
- Material: Stainless steel
- Band: Stainless steel
- Power reserve: 42 hours
- Water resistance: 30m/100ft
- Functions: Date, hour, minute and second
Pros
As is the case with other watches from Longines, the Longines Master Automatic is impressive for its clarity and its simple elegance. The dial itself is pretty straightforward and legible, and the way by which the numbers and the hands are incorporated gives off an impression of well-thought out proportions. If you’re not digging the usual color, Longines has given more options, recently with blue and gray watches. Regardless, the straps on the watch made out of stitched alligator add to the overall polished feel of the watch that will not look out of place even outside classier events. The watch comes with an attractive price that is considerably cheaper than other Swiss luxury brands—you’ll get an ageless timepiece from a reputable company with a long history without burning a hole in your pocket.
Cons
We only have a few quibbles about the watch—the Longines Master Automatic’s crown is a little difficult to use as it is too small, requiring a little effort in winding the watch. Also, there are no problems telling the time in a well-lit room, but the timepiece isn’t of much help in dim surroundings because of its lack of lume.
Compare With
- Hermès Carré H
- Ulysse Nardin Maxi Marine Diver Chronometer
- Panerai Luminor Due
- TAG Heuer “Monaco” by Bamford Watch Department (39mm)
Image Credits: Hodinkee (featured image and article image), Fratello Watches, Longines, Horbiter, aBlogtoWatch, Les Rhabilleurs (article images)