Longines has been based at Saint-Imier in Switzerland since 1832. 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. 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 ever since.

This year, Longines is celebrating its 185th anniversary. To celebrate this milestone, the Swiss watch brand will publish a new anecdote each day related to Longines’ rich history. From January 1st to December 31st, 365 short stories related to the history of Longines will be outveiled daily. From horological achievements to sports partnerships through day-to-day recollections, Longines invites you to find out more on this day at www.longines.com/185years/on-this-day.