Adrian Barker's Watch Collection
- 31 Dec 2023
Longines is renowned in the luxury watch industry for excellent timepiece accuracy and high-quality craftsmanship. Here's what you should know before you buy.
A brief history of Longines Watches
Derived from the Swiss Les Longines meaning long meadows, Longines pays homage to the first factory site built in Switzerland in 1867 to manufacture the luxury watches we know today.
The Longines brand started in 1832 when Auguste Agassiz and his two partners established the Saint-Imier establishment to make and sell pocket watches. After becoming head of the company and the watches finding success in the United States, Agassiz took on his nephew, Ernest Francillon, to run the company. Here, Francillon worked on ways to improve the manufacturing methods in watchmaking.
While under Agassiz, the brand used common procedures used in watchmaking whereby watchmakers would work at home and supply their products to the trading offices. However, Francillon wondered about how the industrial revolution would impact the manufacturing process so he decided to take all the different stages of watchmaking and bring them all under one roof.
To achieve this, Francillon bought two adjoining pieces of land in 1866 and built his factory which was completed a year later. The factory was built on the bank of the River Suze, known locally as Les Longines', meaning long meadows, and so Francillon adopted this name for his factory.
Francillon then took on Jacques David who helped develop the machines required for perfecting watch manufacturing. Because of his innovation and industrial thinking, Francillion continually expanded the factory until the early 20th Century.
The research into technology at Longines rewarded them with various prizes, the first of which was awarded at the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1867 for its first pocket watch product - the 20A. Throughout the brand's history, technical research has allowed Longines to produce high-precision timekeeping and quality manufacturing.
Due to its precise timekeeping reputation, Longines is the official timekeeper in many sports, including equestrian, horse-racing, Formula 1, alpine skiing competitions and gymnastic competitions. To this day, Longines continues to be a reliable and precise timekeeping brand, not only for sports but for all the masses.
Who owns the Longines brand today?
Longines has been a subsidiary of the Swiss Swatch Group, formerly Socit Suisse de Microlectronique et d'Horlogerie (SMH), since 1983. Founded by Nicholas G Hayek, the Swiss Swatch Group is the world watchmaking leader, with other brands such as ETA, Omega, Harry Winston, Hamilton and more under the company.
The current president of Longines is Matthias Breschan who has previously worked for the Swatch Group sister brands, Hamilton and Rado, for a number of years.
Where are Longines items produced now?
Longines watches are still being made in Switzerland, St-Imier, where they were first produced and have remained there since. They are the only watchmaker to have stayed in their original hometown to this day.
What is in the Longines range?
Longines continues to produce one of the most precise timekeeping watches in the world, but their range also includes sunglasses and straps for watches. The Longines tradition of keeping to quality is evident with their ability to provide original straps for watches so you can keep the authentic look of your watch or you can customise it to your preference.
In 2019, Longines began designing, producing and distributing the new optical and sun eyewear range for men and women. This new range embodies the brand's aesthetic and technological know-how to provide exquisite products. The optical and sunglasses range was developed in compliance with the strictest quality requirements and meticulous attention to detail, much like the production of its watches.
Where can I buy Longines products?
Longines products are widely available both online and in-store“ thanks to the company's selected network of retailers. You can find approved retailers in your country that sell authentic Longines products on their websites. Select countries can also purchase from Longines' online stores. At Chisholm Hunter, we stock a wide range of official Longines products including the high-performance HydroConquest for professional divers; the exquisite La Grande Classique collection; the classically authentic Master collection and the impeccable design of the Spirit watches.
How much do Longines products cost?
As with any luxury watch line, prices are on the higher end however, in relation to the rest of the watch industry, Longine places itself as a more attainable and affordable luxury brand compared to its pricier competitors.
Many high street retailers will have Longines products starting from around the £600 mark for the Conquest or La Grande Classique collections and up to several thousands of pounds for collections with more advanced technology and design.
The technical precision and high-quality build of Longines watches coupled with its devotion to tradition and research have helped place the company as the successful luxury brand it is today.
How can I tell if a Longines product is genuine?
Many Longines watches have very small numbers and markings printed on the dial below the number 6. These small markings show the movement number and plate number, which you'll need a magnifying glass to see. Counterfeit Longines watches usually don't have these markings but the ones that do are often done improperly, with defects and have more scratches on the dial surface.
Another way to find out if your Longines watch is genuine is to check the back of the watch case. A genuine Longines watch will be engraved with the watch brand name, the name of the country the watch was manufactured in and special trademark patterns for the watch brand. An authentic Longines watch case is fine and exquisite with a high finish and consistent assembly. A counterfeit watch will have a rough and imprecise watch case. Usually, letters are engraved on the open position of the case to show the amount of gold plating but counterfeit products will not have this mark. You can also check for the authenticity of your watch by going directly to Longines. Since 1867, Longines has kept a record of every single serial number of its watches so you can receive detailed information about your watch and a certificate of authenticity if it is genuine. Longines serial numbers are found engraved on the back of the watch case and are 5 to 8 digits long. In some cases, the serial number may be found on the movement or inside the watch so you may have to remove the case to see it.
Where can I get my Longines watch appraised?
If you'd like to get an appraisal of your Longines products then look for a local jeweller or watchmaker who offers a valuation service.
Older pieces that are in excellent condition will hold their value the best and holding on to pieces that have complicated mechanical workings will give you the highest resale price.
How do I wear my Longines watch?
The beauty of the Longines collection is that a single watch is enough to lift any outfit. Each of the Longines collections will match the occasion, day and outfit. For formal events, many of the Longines collections provide the simple, minimalistic and elegant watch you need to match your outfit.
For casual wearing, you can wear a watch from any of the collections and match it to your outfit, ensuring your arms have the right amount of luxury with elegant dials, gold or silver accents and a classic strap to elevate your look.
How to clean a Longines watch?
Longines watches have been designed to be durable but once in a while, they can require some cleaning to maintain their sharp and elegant look. It's recommended to use a toothbrush and soapy water to clean the metal bracelets and waterproof casings. Then, rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. Your Longines watch should be looking as good as new.
Think a Longines watch could be for you? Take a look at their collection here today.
SHOP THIS
STORY
Adrian Barker, famous YouTuber, esteemed business owner and cherished friend of the brand has shared his diverse collection of watches! His curated selection consists of a mix of luxury watches, affordable watches and a smart watch. Each watch, meticulously selected, not only represents an intrinsic part of Barker's personal style but also stands as a testament to his appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship behind every unique design. In this article, we’ll delve into the timepieces in Adrian Barker’s eclectic collection.
Rolex Submariner 16610LV Kermit
In 2003, Rolex commemorated the Submariner's 50th anniversary with the release of a distinctive edition of the renowned diving watch: the Submariner Date ref. 16610LV. This model showcased two distinctive attributes, notably featuring a striking green aluminum bezel insert. Additionally, Rolex equipped this timepiece with a black "maxi dial," characterized by enlarged indices. The captivating green hue inspired the watch's affectionate nickname: Kermit.
From a technical perspective, the Kermit, discontinued in 2010, boasted identical specifications to the standard Submariner Date ref. 16610. Fast forward ten years to 2020, and the Geneva-based manufacturer once again introduced a Sub Date featuring a green bezel and black dial in the ref. 126610LV model. However, this new iteration presented a bezel made of green ceramic. Enthusiasts fondly coined it "Cermit," while some humorously referred to it as the "Starbucks" owing to its distinctive green bezel.
Both timepieces have garnered significant demand, witnessing a surge in prices from 2020 to early 2022. However, since then, a downward trend has emerged, eventually stabilizing. Consequently, as of Spring 2023, considering the current market scenario, investing in a Submariner Kermit could prove to be a viable option once again.
Specifications:
- Movement: Automatic
- Calibre: 3135
- Case Diameter: 40mm
- Case and Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
- Dial Colour: Black
CWC G10 (British Military Issue Watch)
In 1980, the first quartz watch issued to British Forces was made by CWC. The old logo was used for a couple of years and was changed to the oval logo in 1982. The early G10s were nicknamed Fatboy as the case was deeper than the current models due to earlier deeper movements.
The last CWC G10 issued was around 2008 and is the same watch today, just as rugged, reliable, accurate and dependable as it has always been. (Super-luminova is now used instead of Tritium) Supplied on a CWC issue military strap as standard. The definitive military field watch, supplied to MOD over many years for issue to British servicemen. Case back engraving is available for this watch, and it is Swiss-made using Swiss parts to British military specification.
Specifications:
- Movement: Quartz ETA Swiss
- Glass: Acrylic
- Case Diameter: 38mm including crown, 36.5 without crown
- Water Resistance: 50 metres
- Battery hatch for ease of replacement
Rolex Explorer 14270 36mm
The Rolex Explorer 14270 occupies a fascinating position within the annals of horology. It resides in a curious realm, existing neither as a vintage classic nor as a contemporary trendsetter, rendering it a considerably undervalued timepiece in the world of collectors. Nonetheless, it boasts a dedicated and fervent following among aficionados. Notably, it holds a rare distinction as conceivably one of the inaugural modern Rolex sports watches, marking a pivotal shift in the brand's approach to watchmaking and design. Despite its historical significance, the Rolex Explorer 14270 remains an understated timepiece, its simplicity often leading to its omission from widespread discussions within the watch community.
Specifications:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: 3000
- Case and Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
- Water Resistance: 100 metres
- Crystal: Sapphire crystal
Apple Watch Series 6
“I am not even sure we can call it a watch.” Ben Clymer said this about the Apple Watch eight years ago, back when the very first one was revealed. Since its inception, much has evolved in the realm of Apple Watch, yet the initial uncertainty surrounding its purpose remains as pertinent as ever, continuing to spark debates. The Apple Watch has transcended into a multifaceted device capable of preserving lives, fostering wellness, and facilitating communication. When juxtaposed with traditional timekeeping, its capabilities make conventional methods seem charmingly antiquated, though, of course it can do that too.
Specifications:
- Case Diameter: 40mm
- Blood Oxygen Sensor
- 18-hour battery life
- Full charge in inder 1.5 hours
- 2.5x brighter than series 5
- watchOS7
TUDOR Black Bay 58 Black
Tudor boasts a rich heritage, prominently showcased within the Heritage Black Bay collection. This series draws design cues from models that ceased production decades ago.
Upon the inaugural release of the Black Bay (ref. 79230R) by Tudor in 2012, it received a resounding reception from both devoted enthusiasts and industry connoisseurs. Its timeless diving watch aesthetics and distinctive snowflake hands became the talk of the town. However, amidst its widespread acclaim, a prevalent concern lingered among fans: the initial Black Bay and its subsequent iterations with a 41-mm case size were deemed bulky and unsuitable for many wrists.
In response to these voiced preferences, Tudor unveiled the Heritage Black Bay Fifty-Eight in 2018. Significantly downsizing the case from 41 to 39 mm and reducing its thickness from 15 to 12 mm, the manufacturer also adjusted the lug width from 22 to 20 mm. These alterations retained the case's overall length, including the lugs, under 50 mm. This modification not only aligned the dimensions more closely with 1950s diving watches but also catered to wearers with smaller wrists, finally offering an appealing option.
Specifications:
- Movement: Self-winding mechanical movement with bidirectional rotor system
- Calibre: MT5402
- Case: 39mm
- Power Reserve: 70 hours
- Water Resistance: 200 metres
- Cyrstal: Domed sapphire crystal
Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical
38mm matt stainless steel case, three hand display, dark dial with light, luminescent numerals, indexes showing hours and minutes, durable NATO strap: The new Khaki Field Mechanical is a faithful recreation of its original 1960s forebear and is true to Hamilton’s military heritage. Inspired by the military, built to last, this is the original soldier’s watch. This timepiece featured in Sonic the Hedgehog (2020). Worn by Tom Wachowski, played by James Marsden. The Khaki Field collection includes classic army style watches that have been tried and tested over time. Rugged, robust and resilient, they’re ready for the outdoors and can compete with the best sport watches out there. Built for life’s adventurers, they’re guaranteed to be equal to your needs out in the field.
Specifications:
- Case Diameter: 38mm
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Movement: Mechanical
- Lug width: 20mm
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Power reserve: 80 hour
- Water resistance: 50 metres
Omega Seamaster 300m Pro
In 1993, Frenchman Roland Specker set a new freediving world record of 80 m (262 ft) with the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M on his wrist. It came shortly after Omega had launched this watch alongside a chronograph edition. Both models were the first-ever Omegas to feature a helium escape valve and, thus, be suitable for saturation diving. Just like its famous sibling, the Seamaster 300, the Diver 300M is water-resistant to 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft).
In contrast to the Seamaster 300, the Diver 300M has a date display and a notably more modern design. The wavy edge on the bezel is particularly striking, and the dial, which comes in black, white, gray, blue, or – as of 2022 – olive green, features a distinctive wave pattern on most editions. The Diver 300M also brandishes sword-shaped skeleton hands.
Omega offers this timepiece in various sizes ranging from 28 to 44 mm, most of which normally come in stainless steel. Titanium, ceramic, gold, and two-tone variants in gold and stainless steel are also available. A few models even come in cases of platinum or tantalum, a rare, highly corrosion-resistant metal with a graphite-gray color.
In the beginning, this professional diving watch was available with a quartz or automatic movement. However, Omega only uses mechanical calibers for more recent models. These movements are not only chronometer-certified, but also have been equipped with Omega's co-axial escapement since 2006. Most calibers are also certified Master Chronometers, meaning they can resist magnetic fields of up to 15,000 gauss.
All these features caught the attention of none other than James Bond, who first donned a quartz-powered Seamaster Professional 300M in 1995's "GoldenEye." A quarter of a century later, 007 was still wearing a 300M in the film "No Time to Die" – this time with a Co-Axial Master Chronometer movement and titanium case.
Specifications:
- Case Diameter: 42mm
- Material: Stainless steel
- Glass: Scratch resistant sapphire crystal glass with anti-reflective treatment on both sides
- Calibre: 8800
- Power Reserve: 55 hours
- Water Resistance: 300 metres
SHOP THIS STORY
Looking for a new watch? Take a look at our collection here today!
CHISHOLM HUNTER YOUTUBE
Explore Adrian Barker's Watch Collection
on our YouTube Channel
Live Reaction Video!