Longines: Timeless Elegance with a Legacy of Innovation
At Belmont Watches, we love brands that pair elegant design with real-world purpose. Longines has been doing exactly that since 1832. With nearly two centuries of uninterrupted watchmaking, Longines stands as one of the most enduring and respected names in Swiss horology.
Known for its precision, pioneering spirit, and timeless aesthetics, Longines has played a pivotal role in aviation, exploration, and the evolution of wristwatch design. For collectors, Longines offers a unique combination of value, heritage, and refined style.
From Saint-Imier to the World Stage
Longines was founded in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, and has been operating continuously under the same name longer than almost any other watch company. The brand adopted the famous winged hourglass logo in 1889, which remains the oldest registered trademark in watchmaking still in use today.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Longines earned its reputation by producing chronometers, navigation instruments, and observatory-grade pocket watches. They became the official timekeeper for international sporting events and developed timing equipment that helped define modern sports timekeeping.
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Key Historical Models
Lindbergh Hour Angle Watch (1931)
Developed in collaboration with Charles Lindbergh following his transatlantic flight, the Hour Angle allowed pilots to calculate longitude during navigation. It is one of the most iconic aviation watches of all time and remains a signature piece in Longines’ modern Heritage collection.
Sector Dial and Calatrava-Style Watches (1930s–1950s)
Longines produced some of the most elegant sector dial and time-only watches of the early 20th century. With clean lines, sub-seconds, and sharp Art Deco typography, these dress watches are favorites among vintage collectors today.
13ZN Chronographs
The 13ZN is considered one of the finest chronograph movements ever made. Developed in the 1930s, it featured a flyback complication and exquisite finishing, placing it in the same league as vintage Patek Philippe and Vacheron chronographs.
Military and Exploration Roots
Longines has supplied watches to military forces across the globe. Their field watches, pilot chronometers, and navigation timers have served soldiers, explorers, and adventurers in every era. WWII-era models and 1940s–50s chronometers are particularly sought after by collectors.
Their legacy in exploration includes timing expeditions, polar research missions, and scientific achievements, especially throughout the early 20th century.
Modern Longines and the Heritage Revival
Today, Longines blends its rich past with modern watchmaking. The Heritage Collection faithfully reissues many of its greatest designs, including:
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Heritage Classic Sector Dial
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Avigation BigEye Chronograph
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Flagship Heritage
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Legend Diver
These models offer vintage style with modern performance, making them accessible alternatives to much pricier vintage Swiss brands.
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Why Collectors Love Longines
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Continuous history since 1832
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Pioneer in aviation and navigation watches
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Elegant vintage dress and chronograph models
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High quality with excellent value in the secondary market
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Heritage Collection provides faithful reissues of iconic designs
Whether you are after a vintage chronograph or a modern sector dial, Longines delivers timeless appeal with authentic history.
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Final Thoughts from Belmont Watches
Longines occupies a special space in the world of fine watchmaking. It is a brand that has done it all: exploration, aviation, military service, and timeless design. For collectors and enthusiasts, it is one of the best ways to connect with real Swiss heritage.
We are proud to carry select Longines watches that reflect the elegance and durability that define the brand.
Explore our Longines collection today and let us help you find the piece that speaks to your story