Zenith at Watches and Wonders 2024: Timekeeping Excellence
- 12 Apr 2024
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.
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STORY
Before the industrial revolution, watchmakers were proud and protective of their artisanry ability to handcraft intricate timepieces that transformed the world one tick at a time. That was, until Zenith opened their first workshop in 1865 and revolutionised the manufacturing of luxury watches. Almost 2 centuries later, at Watches and Wonders 2024, Zenith unveiled their latest creations that once again, redefined the nature of horology.
Zentih Defy Extreme Diver Automatic: Precision Unleashed
Zenith first released their diving watches back in 1969, however, aviation and chronograph timepieces were at the forefront. And with being the only brand granted permission to engrave the word “Pilot” onto their aviation watches, it makes sense why diving watches fell by the wayside.
2024 is the year that Zenith takes the plunge with the Zenith Defy Extreme Diver Automatic. Tested to the limits using water, ice, and mist, it was confirmed that the Defy Extreme Diver is a true diving watch.
Fashioned from durable titanium, celebrated for its superior strength-to-weight ratio and unparalleled resistance to corrosion by sea water, the 42.5mm case features precisely defined angles that harmonise robustness with elegance, rendering it virtually invincible to the forces of nature. Tailored for the daring ocean adventurer, this watch is equipped with a helium escape valve, elevating it above its peers and establishing a new benchmark in the diving watch category.
While the innerworkings of this indestructible watch are really something to marvel over, the aesthetics pack just as powerful of a punch. Available with contrasting blue dial and bezel with a striking orange edge or black dial and bezel with an orange edge, you can trust that you can read the Zenith Defy Extreme Diver no matter how murky the waters get.
This diver’s watch offers a unique peek into the complex mechanics of the highly-regarded El Primero 3620-SC automatic high-frequency manufacture calibre, visible through a sapphire case back. Coupled with a generous 60-hour power reserve, it promises ample time for underwater adventures.
Both diving watches come complete with a three-link titanium bracelet or the option of 2 other straps for a customisable look; one made from FKM rubber and the second crafted from recycled fishing nets, a subtle nod to the sustainable mission of Zeniths Horiz-On initiative. No matter blue or black, with the Zenith Defy Extreme Diver, you can take to the waves and look good doing it.
Zenith Defy Extreme Diver 42.5mm Authomatic Watch
Zenith Defy Revival: Precision in Craftsmanship
Zenith takes us back in time with a modern version of the first Defy diver watches. The Zenith Defy Revival A3648 showcases the progression of the brand with avant-garde design and purposeful advancements.
The sleek 37mm stainless steel case of this watch is a modern tribute to the classic DEFY series, with a fourteen-sided bezel that echoes the design trends of the past. Adding contemporary flair, the unidirectional rotating bezel boasts a sapphire crystal insert adorned with black and bright orange markers, reminiscent of the vintage A3648 model.
The dial features a similar colour scheme, with orange hands and minute markers standing out against a matte black surface. And for visibility in the deep sea, the hour markers and hands glow a vibrant green, courtesy of the white Super-LumiNova.
A true diving watch, the screw-down crown and robust sapphire display back ensure this watch can support its signature 600m water resistance. A feature Zenith are proud to have called their own for over 5 decades.
Zenith Defy Revival A3648 37mm Automatic Watch
Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph: Scultping Moments
As the Quartz crisis of the 70’s and 80’s brought a black cloud over the world of watch manufacturing, Zenith stopped production of the iconic El Primero chronograph. But what wasn’t mentioned was the Charles Vermot, a humble watchmaker, would be the reason that the Defy Skyline Chronograph legacy could go on a decade later.
Zenith unveil the latest Zenith Defy Skyline Chronograph with angular lines, fluid transitions, and exceptionally beautiful details. The bold 42mm steel case brings this heritage watch to the 21st century without destroying the legacy of the last 50 years.
The El Primero 3600 calibre is the powerhouse of this watchmaking masterpiece, featuring a precision 1/10th of a second chronograph function, made possible by its swift 5Hz high-frequency movement—a testament to the watchmaker’s intricate expertise. It boasts a substantial 60-hour power reserve, ensuring a seamless passage of time. This is all thanks to the elegantly designed open star-shaped oscillating weight, which facilitates bidirectional winding and is visible through the captivating display back.
Available in three colours- black, blue, and captivating silver, each Skyline Chronograph model is complete with a robust stainless-steel bracelet or sporty rubber strap, which is easily interchangeable with the quick strap-change mechanism built into the case.
Zenith Defy Skyline Chrono 42mm Automatic Watch
For decades, Zenith has shown innovation, ingenuity, and adventure to be in their DNA. With bold designs, a history spanning centuries, and fortified strength, Zenith Defy is a collection that produces nothing but renowned liability and innovation. As we all can see with these Watches and Wonders releases. After all, Zenith pursues their dreams against all odds.
Think Zenith could be the one for you? Take a look at our new Watches and Wonders arrivals today!
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