Longines Watches

Longines Watches: Sophisticated Yet Practical Timepieces 

Since 1832, Longines has been providing consumers with accurate timepieces for various hobbies and sports activities. From diving to aviation, Longines watches feature a wide range of complications such as chronograph, GMT, and even perpetual calendar. 

Among the collections that dominate the sporting world is the Longines Hydroconquest and the Longines Equestrian. But apart from their sporty models, Longines also offers elegant dress watches like the Longines DolceVita and Longines Presence.

How much do Longines watches cost?

How much should you shell out for a Longines watch? Below is a table that gives the approximate price tag of various Longines watches for men and women.

Prices for the Longines Hydroconquest: An Impressive Dive Watch

Released in 2007, the Longines Hydroconquest is the brand’s main dive watch collection. These watches come in various materials and dial layouts. In addition, they are all armed with high-quality lume that can let you read the time even in low-light conditions.

One of the cheapest Longines watches you can buy is the Longines Hydroconquest Quartz in black. Thanks to its quartz Calibre L263, this watch costs only $1,000 USD. But don’t let its price tag fool you because this watch is filled with features. Firstly, it has a high water resistance rating of 300m (985ft), which is more than what recreational divers need. Secondly, it has a unidirectional bezel that will be useful for timing your dives.

On the other hand, a mechanical version is available for $1,600 USD. The Hydroconquest Automatic Black has all the bells and whistles needed for a dive. In particular, it is durable with its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a 300m (985ft) water resistance rating. Furthermore, it has a steel bracelet that is comfortable to wear. This watch is truly a solid choice for divers whether professional or recreational.

For those who have more demanding needs, the Hydroconquest Automatic Chronograph is perfect. Apart from inheriting the diving features that the previous models have, this one has an additional chronograph function. The chronograph displays the central 60-second hand, the 30-minute counter, and 12-hour counter. All of these features only cost about $2,400 USD.

Prices for the Longines Master Collection: Elegant and Complex 

For years, Longines has been lauded as one of the best watchmakers in the world. To demonstrate their expertise, they released the Longines Master Collection, a series of watches that provides various complications and functions. Each model in this lineup runs on a self-winding movement and bears a timeless design.

A fan favorite is the Longines Master Collection Annual Calendar. Some people consider the annual calendar as one of the most coveted complications in the world. With this complication, users don’t have to manually adjust the calendars for decades! Aesthetics-wise, this timekeeper has a white background with large Arabic numerals as hour markers. Overall, it is a great dress watch to wear during formal occasions and it is relatively cheap at only $2,450 USD.

Another masterpiece to look out for is the Master Collection Moonphase GMT. This model is sometimes called the “Quadruple Retrograde” as it has four retrograde hands. These hands are part of the GMT and retrograde GMT functions. In addition, it has a calendar function as well as a power reserve indicator. All of these features will only cost you $3,900 USD.

Prices for the Longines Heritage: The Tribute Watch 

Longines has made a lot of great watches in the past. To honor all those pieces that influenced their history, they decided to re-release them with their original designs but with today’s technology. These watches make up the Longines Heritage collection.

One of the most-loved members of this collection is the revamped Heritage Legend Diver. This model pays tribute to Longines’ dive watches back in the 1960s. With that said, it is successful in reviving its original design. Despite looking old-school, its internals are up-to-date with the L888 calibre that is self-winding. The Longines Heritage Legend Diver will only cost you $2,300 USD.

Longines watches for men are also known for their military roots. That being said, another notable model is the Longines Heritage Military. According to Longines’ history, this watch looks exactly like the old watches used by pilots from the British Royal Air Force. From the dial to the strap, this watch looks like it was straight from the past! The difference, of course, is its revamped movement, which is the L888.2 caliber. How much is this Longines watch?  Well, you can have this watch for $2,150 USD.

Furthermore, we have the Longines Heritage Avigation Watch Type A-7 1935, which boasts a one-of-a-kind design. Its off-centred dial was made to help pilots use the chronograph without having to remove their hands from the control wheel. In spite of its unique layout, it sports a classic black and brown design that you would often see in dress watches. Inside, it uses an L788 movement that can provide you with 54 hours of juice. If you’re interested in buying, this watch will cost you $3,450 USD. 

If you’re in the mood for classic dress watches from this collection, check out the Longines Conquest Heritage (about $1,979 USD) or the Longines Flagship Heritage (around $1,629 USD). These models are not only affordable but they are quite elegant, too. However, if you prefer one with a more vintage feel, then the Longines Heritage 1945 dress watch (about $1,419 discounted) is for you. Its silver-tone stainless steel case and brown leather strap are reminiscent of the era’s dapper fashion.  

Perhaps the most iconic model in the collection is none other than the Longines Lindbergh Hour Angle Watch. To celebrate the 90th anniversary of the legendary pilot Charles A. Lindbergh’s non-stop solo flight from New York to Paris in 1927, Longines launched the Lindbergh Hour Angle 90th Anniversary Watch. With a limited-edition of 90 pieces, the watch remains loyal to the original model, and only costs about $3,099 USD (discounted).

Prices for the Longines Conquest: A Must-Have for Athletes 

The Longines Conquest is often compared to the Hydroconquest. Apart from omitting “hydro” from its name, they have the same sporty vibe. Like the Hydroconquest, watches from this collection meet the needs of various athletes. The difference is that every model comes with a more elegant design that’s guaranteed to catch people’s attention.

First up is the Conquest Chronograph Automatic. This watch comes in a bulky 44.5mm stainless steel case that gives off a rugged yet sophisticated vibe. It offers a chronograph function that shows the central 60 seconds, 30-minute counter, and 12-hour counter. To add, it has a tachymeter bezel that’s easy to read and use. All in all, you can have this value-packed watch for only $2,750 USD.

A cheaper and simpler version of the Conquest is available for only $1,275 USD. The Conquest V.H.P. Quartz does not have the bells and whistles of a chronograph, but it makes up with its VHP movement. For the unacquainted, VHP means “Very High Precision” and it offers an accuracy rating of +/- 5 seconds per year. In terms of aesthetics, this watch bears a minimalistic white dial that is easy to read.

Prices for the Longines La Grande Classique: Chic and Sophisticated

The Longines La Grande Classique was made for the sophisticated lady who needs a reliable wristwatch. Models from this collection bear a timeless look that follows traditions from the past. To demonstrate, these are small with a diameter of only 24mm to 36mm. Moreover, their bezels are polished to highlight an elegant aesthetic.

One of the cheapest models is the Le Grande Classique Quartz which costs as low as $799 USD. This model is a no-frills watch that only tells the time and date. Its dial consists of Roman numeral hour markers encased in a yellow gold case for a dash of classiness. Lastly, its black leather strap is perfect as it complements the gilt hue of the case.

A few models offer more bling, like the La Grande Classique de Longines Quartz Diamond watch. Instead of the usual Roman numeral hour markers, it uses diamonds instead. These diamonds are set against a silk-like dark blue background. In addition, diamonds are also set around the bezel for added elegance. This model runs on the L420 quartz movement, which provides superior performance.

Meanwhile, an automatic time-only watch is also available for $1,399 USD. The La Grande Classique de Longines Automatic sports a champagne case and dial. This contrasts well against the black Roman numeral markers. While it doesn’t have too many complications, you can trust that its L591 caliber will do the job accurately and precisely. Lastly, its black leather strap is like the icing on top that ties the look together.

Prices for the Longines Flagship: A Traditional Watch

Lovers of traditional watches will appreciate the Longines Flagship collection. In fact, it received a lot of praise from fans when it came out in 1957. While watches in the lineup run on improved self-winding movements, these models boast a timeless and classic design that people loved from the past.

The Flagship Automatic in silver offers a monochrome look for only $1,269 USD. Its sunray silver dial matches its stainless steel case and bracelet. Furthermore, it comes in a 38.5mm diameter that is common for dress watches and vintage-inspired pieces. It runs on a self-winding L888 calibre that beats at 25,200 vph and provides 64 hours of power reserve. To add, this movement provides only the time and date features.

A more feature-rich choice is the Flagship Heritage Automatic White Dial Chronograph. Its chronograph function includes a 30-minute counter, a 12-hour counter, and a 60-second counter. Of course, these additional functions come at a premium price of $3,300 USD. But despite having various complications, its dial remains clean against a milky white background. Furthermore, the brown alligator strap makes it a convincing dress watch.

Lastly, the Flagship Heritage Automatic is a sight to behold for only $1,675 USD. It has a black minute tracker that runs around just below the hour markers. This gives the illusion that it has a pie-pan dial. Moreover, its gold hands and hour markers are a perfect match for the cream background. Inside, it runs on the L615 automatic caliber that provides 42 hours of power reserve.

Prices for the Longines Evidenza: For the Vintage Watch Lover 

One of the most noticeable things about the Longines Evidenza is its shape. Models from this collection sport a tonneau shape that pays homage to Longines watches for men and women back in 1911. Likewise, its italicized Arabic numeral hour markers add a vintage touch that will appeal to many people.

Ladies will appreciate the Longines Evidenza Automatic Silver. This small watch comes in a 26mm diameter that is best suited for slim wrists. On the dial, it contains a Silver background with a “flinque” pattern that’s popular in the old days. To boot, metallic blue steel hands give it a pop of color. This watch runs on the L592 calibre and costs only $2,000 USD.

The Longines Evidenza L2.142.0.70.6 is the more expensive version of the Evidenza Automatic Silver. In particular, it comes with a hefty price tag of $3,725 USD due to the diamonds set around the case. These diamonds are Wesselton IF-VVS and have a total of 0.358 carats. Other than the bling, the size, movement, dial, and bracelet are all the same with the previous watch.

Another model for men is also available for $2,175 USD. The Evidenza L2.642.4.73.4 looks a lot like the previous watches but with the added running seconds sub-dial at the 6 o’clock position. Under the hood, it is equipped with the L615 calibre that beats at 28,800 vph and provides 42 hours of power reserve. Lastly, it comes with a brown alligator strap that is more formal than a metal bracelet.

Prices for the Longines Presence: A Classic Dress Watch

The Longines Presence collection values simplicity and elegance. Watches under this lineup boast a classic shape with understated lines. These timepieces are best used as dress watches for formal occasions.

One of the cheapest Longines watches you can buy is the Presence Quartz White for ladies, which costs $659. This watch’s dial is very minimalistic with index hour markers. Likewise, its white color scheme makes it versatile enough to be worn with different outfits. Despite having an elegant design, this model can handle pressure with its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and 30m (98ft) water resistance.

The Longines Presence lineup also consists of automatic watches like the Presence Automatic White Men’s watch, which costs only $1,500 USD. Its white dial comes in a matte finish that contrasts well against the black Roman numeral markers. Located at the 6 o’clock position are the date window and running seconds sub-dial. And when it comes to movement, it uses an L615 calibre that provides 42 hours of power reserve.

Prices for the Longines DolceVita: Inspired by the Jazz Era 

Perhaps the Longines DolceVita is the most elegant Longines collection for both men and women. Watches in this lineup feature a rectangular case that’s reminiscent of the 1920s. Moreover, the collection exhibits the timeless elegance of the brand.

The DolceVita Quartz L55128710 is one of the most formal Longines watches for ladies. It features an 18K pink gold case with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. On the dial, it has Roman Numeral hour markers with a running seconds subdial at 6 o’clock. Powering the watch is the  L176 quartz movement that will last you for years. This elegant watch can be had for $4,750 USD.

If you’re not a fan of the Roman Numeral hour markers, the DolceVita Quartz L55024736 has Arabic numerals instead. To add, it also has a running seconds sub-dial at the bottom of the dial. Like the previous watch, it uses a quartz movement that ensures accuracy and precision. At only $899 USD, this model is one of the cheapest Longines watches.

Prices for the Longines Symphonette: A Sexy Dress Watch

The Longines Symphonette boasts a slender oval case that ladies will love. While the watches in this collection share the same shape and overall design, they differ in materials and color. But whichever Symphonette watch you choose, it’s a guarantee that you’ll receive a top-notch timekeeper ticking inside an attractive case.

One fan favorite is the Symphonette Quartz L23064710. This watch is tiny with only a 21.9mm case diameter so it is best suited for ladies with slim wrists. On the dial, it has a silver “flinque” design, which makes it more visually interesting. This blends in well with the blue Roman numeral hour markers and hands. For this quartz watch, you only have to spend $1,275 USD.

The Symphonette Quartz Black L23054570, on the other hand, offers more bling. It has 13 diamond hour markers set against a pitch black background. These diamonds have a total of 0.037 carats. Furthermore, the hands come in a silver color that matches the case. Despite having gems, this watch has a price tag of $1,575 USD.

Longines’ Milestones and Innovations

Winner of the Grand Prix of the Universal Exposition

Using a pocket watch called La Renommee, Longines won the Grand Prix at the Universal Exhibition in 1900. The watch that they used had the 21.59 calibre chronometer. During that time, it was the greatest honor given to brands.

First Electromechanical Sports Timekeeping System

In 1832, Longines introduced their first electromechanical timing system at Fete Federale de Gymnastique. This system was considered a breakthrough for the era as it improved precision greatly. After this system’s release, the brand found themselves being used in horse racing more often.

Longines 20A

While it was the 20H chronograph calibre that made Longines famous in the sporting world, the brand’s first-ever calibre was the 20A which was produced in 1867. This mechanical movement had an anchor escapement and pendant winding mechanism. This movement went on to win an award at the Universal Exhibition in Paris during the same year.

Longines Ladies’ Watches

Ladies have a lot of options when it comes to timekeepers. In fact, the ladies’ models are some of the cheapest Longines watches in the whole lineup. These watches usually come in a small case size around 20mm to 30mm. To add, these timekeepers are also available in various materials, movements, and designs.

For a sophisticated watch, we have the Classic Automatic watches from the Longines Conquest collection. This two-toned model comes in a rose gold and stainless steel color scheme that some people love. Furthermore, it has easy-to-read hour markers and is equipped with an automatic movement with a 40-hour power reserve. For only $3,425 USD, this watch is a must-have for the businesswoman who needs an elegant for business meetings.

Meanwhile, the quartz for ladies watches from the Longines DolceVita collection sport a 1920s-inspired design. In particular, the rectangular-shaped watch comes with Roman numeral hour markers that give it a classic look. Furthermore, it has metallic blue hands that add a pop of color. It sports the Longines Calibre L176 that is quartz which is considered a reliable workhorse. This watch retails at $3,675 USD.

If you love small watches, check out the Automatic Diamonds watch from the Longines PrimaLuna collection. This 26.5mm beauty uses diamonds as hour markers set against a mother of pearl dial. And underneath, it runs on a Calibre L595 which can power the watch for 40 hours. For a diamond-studded watch, this comes at a relatively cheap price tag of $1,950 USD.

History of Longines

In 1832, Auguste Agassiz founded a watch company in Saint-Imier in Switzerland. Back then, the company was named Raiguel Jeune & Cie and was run by two other people — Henri Raiguel and Florian Morel. However, in 1846, both Raiguel and Morel had retired and left Agassiz to run the company alone. So to get some help running the business, Agassiz invited his nephew, Ernest Francillon, to join the company. Francillon went on to create many innovations that made Longines what it is today.

Francillon brought many changes to the company, including its location. In 1866, he bought a land in a place called Les Longines (or “the long meadows” in English) and built a factory there. After a year, the company coined its name from this place.

In 1878, Longines achieved a milestone by creating their first chronograph movement called the 20H. The movement provided top-notch precision and accuracy which made them popular in the sports community. Longines became bigger and bigger until they could stand on their own feet. So in 1880, they stopped purchasing movements from suppliers and started creating and using their own.

Demand for high-quality watches was high and with it came a spike in the number of counterfeit watches made. To protect the business, Francillon registered the company at the Federal Office for Intellectual Property. Longines’ name and logo are the oldest trademarks that are unchanged and still in use since 1889.

Famous Patrons of Longines

Albert Einstein

Longines watches for men are good enough to be worn by one of the greatest minds that ever lived. World-famous physicist Albert Einstein wore a vintage gold Longines from 1929. The watch has a tonneau-shaped case and old-school Arabic numeral font. Moreover, it comes with a brown leather strap. Lastly, at the back is an inscription in block letters “PROF. ALBERT EINSTEIN LOS ANGELES FEB.16.1931”.

This timepiece was sold at an auction in New York on October 16, 2008. It sold for a hefty price of $596,000 USD, making it the most expensive Longines watch sold at an auction during that time.

Another Longines watch that Einstein owned was a pocket watch dating from 1943. Unlike his wristwatch, this was not sold in an auction and instead was sent to the History Museum in Berne, Switzerland.

Mads Mikkelsen

Who knew that Longines also starred in a James Bond movie? Mads Mikkelsen, who played Le Chiffre in the film, was seen wearing a Longines Evidenza Chronograph in Casino Royale. Many eagle-eyed fans recognized the familiar tonneau case, black sub-dials, and steel mesh bracelet. Some reports claim that it is the Evidenza with model number L26564536.

Aishwarya Rai

Pink Panther 2 star Aishwarya Rai proudly wears a Longines La Grande Classique watch with a black dial and strap. In fact, the watch can be seen in the movie where her character meets Inspector Clouseau.

According to fans, the watch worn by Rai has a stainless steel case that’s studded with 48 diamonds. Those diamonds are Top Wesselton VVS with 0.403 carats. Rai even admitted that whenever she could wear a watch during filming, she would always wear a Longines. 

Kate Winslet

Another proud owner of a Longines watch is English actress Kate Winslet. In an interview, Winslet said that one of her favorites is a watch from the Longines Heritage collection, which was the first model given to her by the brand. 

She has been part of the Longines family since 2010 and has since then contributed to the brand in many ways. In 2017, she helped design five models of Flagship Heritage watches. Three of those watches were auctioned for the benefit of the Golden Hat Foundation.

Andre Agassi

Many people don’t know this, but tennis star Andre Agassi also worked with Longines for a long time. He was seen wearing a Longines Conquest VHP watch a lot of times. In an interview, Agassi said he admires Longines watches for their practicality and elegance. According to him, he can go upscale or sporty with his watches.

Like Kate Winslet, the athlete has also done charity work with the brand. In particular, the Andre Agassi Foundation for Education received a lot of support from the brand.

Longines Watches: Your Practical Choice

Although they are sometimes underrated, Longines watches for men and women provide excellent value for money. These watches’ accuracy and durability are second to none. And due to their rich pedigree and history, Longines is one of the most prestigious watchmakers in the world. This is why a Longines watch value will not depreciate so easily.