As summer begins to wind down Longines introduces some value propositions, offering a nice “bang-for-your-buck”. We’re referring to the new “Longines Master Moonphase” collection that was released with three dial options, one of which can also be had with diamond indexes; and all of them competitively priced under the $3,000.00 USD dollar mark.
Longines has clearly been reviewing and tweaking their overall strategy for the horology industry. This year they were not present at Baselworld, along with all the other watch brands owned by Swatch. Besides that according to CEO Walter von Känel, Longines will not be developing their own movements in the near future, relying instead on standard ETA movement and some exclusively modified caliber, as found on these new releases.
All the varying dial designs can be had in either a 40mm or 42mm case made of stainless-steel with a transparent exhibition case back, which allows to view the inner working of the mechanical movement. Except for the diamond-studded options, which are only available in the 40mm case. The case design is quite classic and functional with a smooth fixed steel bezel and short stubby lugs that provide a comfortable wrist-fit and a setting crown. All topped by a sapphire crystal that also assists with water-resistance reaching up to 30 meters (98 feet).
Dial wise the 42mm version is available in either: black with metal applique Roman numerals, blue with metal applique hour index markers, or white with black printed Arabic numerals; while all three dials are commonly followed by a ring of white (or black for the white version) printed minute index markers, circling around the periphery of the dial with Arabic numerals for every 5-minute increment.
But there are more subtle differentiating aspects to be found in this collection. The blue dial has a sunray finish, while black and white silvered dial features a barleycorn pattern throughout its whole surface. The central hour, minutes and seconds have all been crafted out of stainless-steel on the black and blue dial, while the white silver dial has been given blued steel hands, for an enhanced legibility.
Last but not least aligned with the 6 o’clock position we encounter the truly remarkable inclusion of a Moonphase, given into account the price-tag associated with these timepieces. Furthermore it is worth mentioning that this is indeed a well-crafted and high-detailed Moonphase, which features a gold moon and series of starts, placed over a blue steeled night sky backdrop. Circling the Moonphase is an Arabic numeral calendar ring that communicated via a steel pointer date hand.
Longines Master Moonphase Collection
The “Longines Master Moonphase” (References below) 40mm and 42mm versions are both powered by the self-winding mechanical movement, caliber L899 with 21 jewels and 25,200 vph. It is based on the ETA A31.L91 caliber, but this movement has been made exclusively by ETA for Longines. Power reserve can last up to 64 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted to these watch can be either a: black, blue or brown strap, secured to the wrist by a double-folding steel clasp; or a stainless-steel bracelet, secured to the wrist by a stainless-steel triple folding clasp with a push-piece opening mechanism. Opting for either the strap or stainless-steel bracelet makes no difference, which leads us to suggest choosing the bracelet and at a later date acquiring a strap option on the side. For more up to date information and all the various reference numbers visit the official Longines website here or use the direct links to each watch below.
MSRP: $2,350.00 USD – 40mm version
40mm White Silver Dial on Strap – Ref#: L29094783
40mm White Silver Dial on Bracelet – (Ref#: L29094786)
40mm Blue Dial on Bracelet – (Ref#: L29094926)
40mm Blue Dial on Strap – (Ref#: L29094920)
40mm Black Dial on Bracelet – (Ref#: L29094516)
40mm Black Dial on Strap – (Ref#: L29094517)
MSRP: $2,450.00 USD – 42mm version
42mm Blue Dial on Bracelet – (Ref#: L29194926)
42mm Blue Dial on Strap – (Ref#: L29194920)
42mm Black Dial on Bracelet – (Ref#: L29194516)
42mm Black Dial on Strap – (Ref#: L29194517)
MSRP: $2,750.00 USD – 40mm version with diamond indexes
40mm White Silver Dial on Bracelet – (Ref#: L29094776)
40mm Blue Dial on Strap – (Ref#: L29094970)
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Longines, Master Collection, Moonphase, Luxury Watches
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