Longines has been based at Saint-Imier in Switzerland since 1832. Its watchmaking expertise reflects a strong devotion to tradition, elegance and performance. In its early days, the firm was run by Auguste Agassiz and was a “comptoir” or trading office like many others in the area. The watches were produced under the “établissage” system, whereby watchmakers worked at home. In 1867, Ernest Francillon, Agassiz’s nephew and successor decided to abandon this production method and he brought together the different stages that go toward making a watch under one roof. The Longines factory was born. From then on, the factory in Saint-Imier steadily developed and produced many horological creations that gained international recognition.
Longines was rewarded by various prizes which gradually gave the company its reputation of winning the most awards in international and world exhibition up until the 1929 exhibition in Barcelona, by which time Longines had won no fewer than 10 Grand Prix. In 1889, Francillon patented a trademark comprising the name Longines and its now famous winged hourglass. Longines also made a name of itself in sports timekeeping and designed timing equipment that gained the brand a worldwide reputation. Using its expertise, the brand established a network of advantageous links with the world of sport timekeeping which enabled it to offer its skilled services to various prestigious sports during the 20th century.
Today, Longines is proud to continue its tradition by creating products based on values that it has adhered to throughout the history. Longines also follows its vocation in the field of sports timing, namely in gymnastics, archery, alpine skiing, equestrian sports and at the French Open at Roland-Garros. As a member of the Swatch Group Ltd, the World’s leading manufacturer of horological products, Longines has outlets in over 140 countries.
Collections
THE LONGINES MASTER COLLECTION
As a traditional watchmaking company, Longines has been producing exceptional timepieces since the very beginning. Today, the Longines Master Collection is the perfect illustration of this corporate ethos, as can be seen from the success enjoyed by this range since it was launched in 2005. All fitted with self-winding movements, the various models in this collection offer many special features. The Longines Master Collection brings together the classical elegance and excellent quality which never cease to delight those who appreciate exceptional timepieces.
HYDROCONQUEST
Founded in 1832 in Saint-Imier, the famous Swiss watch brand Longines can boast a long tradition characterised by the elegance and performance of its products. Those values are perfectly represented by The Longines Sport Collection. The HydroConquest line is dedicated to men and women looking for a high performance timepiece that combines technical innovation and elegance. Longines now extends this line with new models in bright colours.
LA GRANDE CLASSIQUE DE LONGINES
Launched in 1992, La Grande Classique de Longines has played a major role in forging the reputation of the winged hourglass brand. This range is a symbol of Longines’ classic elegance and timeless sophistication, and stands out thanks to its very slim profile and wide palette of versions. Designed for both women and men, this iconic collection can be seen on the wrists of all those who know how to appreciate true value.
LONGINES DOLCEVITA
Since its inception, the Longines DolceVita collection has illustrated contemporary elegance of the Longines watchmaking brand worldwide. Inspired by the “Dolce Vita”, it is an homage to the sweetness of life. Today, a new chapter in this collection opens with a unique interpretation featuring softened lines. These new variations will not fail to impress women who have made charm a way of life.
LONGINES SPIRIT
Historically, Longines has accompanied legendary pioneers as they conquer air, land and sea. Today, the winged hourglass brand has drawn inspiration from this heritage to create Longines Spirit, a collection with an impeccable pedigree. This collection links history with innovation by combining references to the glory days of aviation with present-day aesthetic and technical requirements. These resolutely contemporary timepieces are a testimony to the pioneering spirit that has inspired the brand since its earliest days. A glowing tribute to these exceptional men and women who, by a record, an exploit or a display of courage, have left their mark on history – pushing new generations to surpass themselves.
HERRITAGE
A reinterpretation of a 1960s diver watch, The Longines Legend Diver occupies a special place in the brand’s Heritage segment. Symbolic of the rich heritage of Longines, this range has gradually expanded over the years. All models retain the spirit and clean lines of the original timepiece, while being equipped with up-to-date technical features. Contemporary yet steeped in history, it will beyond a doubt play its own part in the story of a legendary watch that’s a well-known, well-loved collector’s piece.
