A celebration of elegance and tradition to mark the 180th anniversary of Longines

A celebration of elegance and tradition to mark the 180th anniversary of Longines

This year Longines is celebrating its 180th anniversary, a perfect opportunity to present a series of new models to illustrate the brand’s long tradition and know-how. These timepieces are made out of gold or steel in numbered series, in some cases limited. 

Following on from the limited edition model presented at Baselworld 2012, new single push-piece chronographs in gold or steel have been designed in The Longines Column-Wheel Single Push-Piece Chronograph 180th Anniversary range. Fitted with a single push-piece column-wheel movement made exclusively for Longines, these models boast a beauty that is typical of the brand. Two ultra-thin, ladies’ models have been created to add a touch of elegance to the commemoration of this anniversary. The Agassiz 180th Anniversary Limited Edition model in gold and the La Grande Classique de Longines 180th Anniversary Limited Edition model in steel are each set with 180 diamonds. Recalling the brand’s prestigious history, the Longines Lépine 180th Anniversary timepiece is now available in gold or steel versions.

Founded in Saint-Imier in 1832, the Swiss watchmaker Longines is launching various new models to commemorate its 180th anniversary. The single push-piece chronographs in The Longines Column-Wheel Single Push-Piece Chronograph 180th Anniversary range are reminiscent of the first wristwatch chronographs produced by Longines from 1913 on. These new models are fitted with calibre L788, a column-wheel chronograph movement developed exclusively for Longines which enables the wearer to activate the various chronograph functions by simply pressing on the single push-piece integrated into the crown. The various versions are available in steel or rose gold. Some models are mounted on a brown alligator strap fixed to the case using flexible lugs, adding a historical touch to these exceptional timepieces. Like the original Agassiz models, the white dials of the new versions feature black Roman or Arabic numerals and a bright red 12. 

In order to celebrate 180 years of elegance and tradition in a fitting way, Longines has also brought out an anniversary ladies’ model made of gold and set with diamonds. The Agassiz 180th Anniversary Limited Edition watch is a contemporary addition to the collection launched in 1982 as a tribute to the founder of Longines, Auguste Agassiz. This model has an ultra-slim rose gold case with a diameter of 25.50 mm set with 180 diamonds. The timeless style of this exceptional timepiece, fitted with a quartz movement, is completed by the mother-of-pearl dial featuring twelve diamond hour-symbols. Mounted on a black alligator strap, this sleek and sophisticated model is available in a limited series of 180 pieces.

Like this gold watch and as part of the line of extra-thin models made by Longines, the brand has also designed La Grande Classique de Longines 180th Anniversary Limited Edition. This ultra-slim model in steel has a diameter of 29 mm and is set with 180 diamonds. Twelve diamonds have also been used as hour symbols on the white mother-of-pearl dial. With its steel bracelet and quartz movement, La Grande Classique de Longines 180th Anniversary Limited Edition is the latest addition to this leading collection which has been a firm favourite among men and women who appreciate elegance for the past 20 years.

As a tribute to its 180 years of know-how, Longines has gone back to its origins for inspiration and has produced the Longines Lépine 180th Anniversary model, a pocket watch that exemplifies the brand’s rich heritage. Fitted with a hand-wound, mechanical movement (L878) manufactured by Longines, this timepiece recalls the first pocket watches produced by Auguste Agassiz. Available in yellow gold in a limited edition of 180 pieces, as well as in a steel version, this exceptional creation has an engine-turned back cover which opens to reveal an engraved case back. The Longines Lépine 180th Anniversary model has a white lacquered dial featuring black painted Roman numerals and blued steel hands.