Longines Watch Review: Is this Brand Worth Your Money?

When we think of luxury watches, the usual big names come to mind like Rolex, Omega, maybe even Patek Philippe. But outside of those high-end brands, there are plenty of watchmakers you’ve probably come across just by going about your daily life. One said watchmaker is Longines.

Longines is a powerhouse in the Swiss watch industry, and not just because they’re part of the legendary Swatch Group, the same company that owns Tissot, Hamilton, Omega, Rado, and many others. Instead, Longines is largely known because they are so visible. When I say visible, I mean this is a watch brand you’ll have seen promoted several times in your life, maybe without even noticing.

Their branding is everywhere, from TV ads to billboards, and especially in the world of sports. If you’ve ever watched the Commonwealth Games, Ascot, the Kentucky Derby, or the Dubai World Cup, chances are you’ve seen the Longines name plastered all over the event.

And let’s be real, when a watch brand is trusted to keep time at some of the biggest sporting events in the world, that says something about its reputation for precision.

So, whether you’ve heard of Longines in passing or you’re completely new to the brand, today we’re going to break it all down. Is Longines actually worth your money? What makes Longines watches stand out? And should you seriously consider adding a Longines watch to your collection?

Longines Watches in the Past

Longines was founded in 1832 by Auguste Agassiz in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. The company originally operated as a traditional “comptoir,” otherwise known as a watch trading office, but they quickly gained a reputation for high-quality timepieces. By 1867, under the leadership of Ernest Francillon, Longines took a big step forward by centralizing production in a new factory in Les Longines, from which the brand took its name.

That same year, Longines introduced its first in-house movement, the 20A, which went on to win an award at the Universal Exhibition in Paris. This was just the beginning of Longines’ deep connection to precision and innovation. A few decades later, in 1889, they officially registered their now-iconic winged hourglass logo, making it the oldest registered watch trademark still in continuous use today.

By the early 20th century, Longines had become a major player in precision timing. They developed some of the earliest electromechanical timing systems for sports events, and by the 1920s, they were supplying highly accurate chronometers for pioneering aviators.

One of their most famous collaborations came in 1927 when Charles Lindbergh, fresh off his historic solo transatlantic flight, worked with Longines to create the Lindbergh Hour Angle Watch. This innovative tool was designed to help pilots navigate the skies more accurately.

Around the same time, they also worked with Philip Van Horn Weems to develop the Weems Second-Setting Watch, another important aviation timepiece. Longines’ commitment to precision made them the official timekeeper for countless major sporting events, including the Olympic Games, further cementing their place in the world of sports timing.

Over the years, Longines has produced some truly iconic watches. The Conquest line, introduced in 1954, was one of their first dedicated collections, marking a shift towards more recognizable model families.

In 1967, they launched the Ultra-Chron, one of the first high-frequency wristwatches, operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour which even now is an impressive technical achievement.

The 1960s also saw the release of the Longines Legend Diver, which has since become a highly sought-after vintage dive watch. These models, along with their aviation pieces, highlight Longines’ ability to blend technological advancements with classic, elegant designs.

By the time the 1980s rolled around, Longines had solidified its reputation as a brand that masterfully balanced heritage, precision, and timeless aesthetics.

Longines Watches Today 

Today, Longines continues to thrive as part of the Swatch Group, staying true to its roots while embracing modern technology.

Unlike some brands that push into extreme high horology or ultra-modern designs, Longines remains focused on creating elegant, precise, and accessible luxury watches.

They’re still a major force in sports timing, particularly in equestrian events, skiing, and tennis, where their long history of accuracy makes them a trusted name. 

Their modern collections reflect both their heritage and their drive for innovation. The Longines Master Collection, launched in 2005, is a perfect example of their dedication to timeless elegance.

One standout model is the Master Collection Moonphase, which offers a sophisticated yet approachable take on high complications. 

Then there’s the Longines Spirit Collection, a personal favourite of mine that’s a modern tribute to the brand’s aviation history. The Longines Spirit Zulu Time, with its GMT function, is understandably a popular model among frequent travellers and aviation enthusiasts alike. 

On the sportier side, the Longines HydroConquest remains one of the most popular dive watches in its price range, offering 300 meters of water resistance and modern upgrades like ceramic bezels and sapphire crystal glass.

Another heritage-inspired piece that has gained a strong following is the Longines Legend Diver, which retains the vintage charm of its 1960s predecessor while incorporating modern enhancements like an automatic movement and improved water resistance. 

In terms of technical advancements, Longines has made some impressive moves in recent years. Many of their watches now feature silicon balance springs, which improve resistance to magnetism and enhance longevity.

They’ve also introduced Longines V.H.P. (Very High Precision) quartz movements, which are accurate to within +/- 5 seconds per year putting these watches among the most precise quartz timepieces in the world. In 2023, they also expanded the Spirit line with monopusher chronographs, further proving their ability to blend vintage aesthetics with modern mechanics. 

Longines continues to occupy a unique space in the watch industry. Positioned between entry-level Swiss brands like Tissot and high-end brands like Omega, they offer a compelling mix of history, precision, and affordability. Looking ahead, it’s likely that they’ll continue refining their collections, introducing more heritage reissues, and incorporating new movements and materials into their designs.

What Makes Longines Watches Stand Out?

Most watch brands tend to fall into one of two categories: they’re either budget-friendly but lack deep heritage and advanced technology, or they boast both but come with a hefty price tag and a limited selection.

Longines, however, doesn’t quite fit into either. Instead, they have a fantastic balance of tradition, craftsmanship and value and it’s for this reason so many collectors and first-time buyers have chosen a Longines watch for their wrist. 

They’re a brand that truly understands how to blend history with modernity, creating timepieces that feel both classic and contemporary. Whether you’re looking for a refined dress watch, a rugged sports model, or a vintage-inspired reissue, Longines has something for every taste, lifestyle, and occasion.

 Something else that makes Longines so special is their commitment to quality. From the materials they use to the watchmaking techniques they employ, everything is done with precision and care.

Most Longines cases are made from high-grade stainless steel, ensuring durability while maintaining a polished and elegant finish. For those who want a little extra luxury, there are models available in solid 18k gold or even two-tone combinations that mix precious metals with steel.   

The dials are also always protected by sapphire crystal, which is highly resistant to scratches and keeps the watch looking pristine for years. Even the bracelets and straps are carefully chosen to match the character of each watch, whether it’s a supple leather strap for a dress watch or a sturdy rubber band for one of their diver’s models.

Of course, it’s not just about how a watch looks but also how it performs. As we’ve already detailed, Longines is known for its precision, so we’re pretty confident they’ll pass the test here.

They offer both high-quality quartz and mechanical movements with one of their most notable of the latter being the L888. It’s a tried and tested ETA calibre with an impressive 64-hour power reserve. That means you can take the watch off for the weekend and come back to it on Monday without having to reset the time. 

Many of their automatic movements also include a silicon balance spring, which makes them more resistant to magnetic fields and helps maintain long-term accuracy.

For those who want something even more precise, Longines’ Very High Precision (VHP) quartz movements are among the most accurate in the industry, keeping time within just a few seconds per year. 

To top it off, every Longines watch goes through a rigorous quality control process before leaving the factory.

Each piece is tested for water resistance, accuracy, and durability to ensure it meets the brand’s high standards. This is particularly important for models like the HydroConquest, a watch designed for divers and built to handle extreme underwater conditions. 

We also need to talk about Longines’ ability to appeal to a wide audience thanks to their incredibly diverse range of watches.

There’s truly something for everyone. If you love the elegance of a classic dress watch, the Master Collection and DolceVita offer timeless sophistication.

If you prefer vintage-inspired designs with a sense of history, the Heritage collection is filled with reissues of some of Longines’ most iconic models, like the Legend Diver and the Heritage Military. 

For those who live an active lifestyle, the Conquest and HydroConquest collections provide durable, stylish sports watches that can handle anything from a boardroom meeting to a weekend adventure.

And if you’re drawn to aviation history, the Longines Spirit line pays tribute to the brand’s long-standing connection to pilots with bold, functional designs that still feel refined. 

The variety doesn’t stop at styles either. Longines offers a huge range of case sizes, dial colors, materials, and complications, so there’s always a watch that feels like the perfect fit.

Whether you want a simple three-hand dress watch, a chronograph for precise timing, or a GMT function to track multiple time zones, Longines has something that suits your needs. And because their designs are rooted in timeless elegance, they never feel outdated. 

Finally, and possibly the most important reason Longines’ collections are worth exploring is that on top of their heritage, craftsmanship, precision, and style, these are watches that come at a price point that remains accessible compared to many other Swiss luxury brands.

You get genuine Swiss quality without having to spend an exorbitant amount, making Longines one of the best value watchmakers in the watch world. It’s a brand that allows more people to experience the beauty of fine watchmaking without compromising on quality.

Should you get a Longines Watch? 

If you were to ask me whether it’s worth buying a Longines watch, then I’d not hesitate to say yes. If you’re looking for a timepiece that beautifully balances heritage, craftsmanship, and affordability, then there’s not much point looking anywhere else.

This Swiss watchmaker has ingeniously occupied a space in the watch world that so many others have failed to do, offering Swiss-made luxury without the extreme price tags of some of its competitors. 

Whether you’re after a rugged sports watch, a refined dress piece, or something with vintage charm, Longines has a collection that fits the bill. For those who appreciate classic pilot or field watches with a luxury edge, I highly recommend the Longines Spirit collection.

Inspired by the brand’s deep aviation history, these watches have a bold yet refined aesthetic, with crisp dials, oversized crowns, and COSC-certified chronometer movements for precision. They channel the spirit of early explorers and aviators while still being perfectly suited to everyday wear. 

If durability and versatility is more of what you’re after, the Longines Conquest collection is an ideal choice. These watches are built to handle an active lifestyle, offering robust cases, strong water resistance, and a look that transitions effortlessly from the gym to the office to an evening out.

For a sportier finish but with true dive watch capabilities, the Longines HydroConquest is a worthy upgrade. This collection is designed for water enthusiasts and adventure seekers, boasting serious dive-ready specs like 300 metres of water resistance, unidirectional rotating bezels, and luminous markers for visibility in low-light conditions. 

For those who gravitate more toward refined elegance, Longines has no shortage of stunning dress watches. The DolceVita collection, with its Art Deco-inspired rectangular cases, is a favourite of mine.

These watches exude old Hollywood glamour and provide the luxury feel of something like a Cartier Tank, but at a far more attainable price.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more traditional round dress watch, the Longines Master Collection is a perfect blend of timeless aesthetics and sophisticated watchmaking.

Not only are these watches beautifully designed, but they also feature impressive complications, from moon-phase displays to chronographs and even GMT functions, the latter being an uncommon yet welcome addition in the world of dress watches. 

For those who love vintage-inspired timepieces, Longines has some of the best heritage reissues on the market.

The aptly named Heritage Collection brings back some of the brand’s most iconic designs, refined with modern materials and movements.

One standout is the Heritage Diver, a watch that pays tribute to Longines’ rich history in underwater exploration. With its bold, cushion-shaped case and retro charm, it’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate old-school dive watch aesthetics with modern performance. 

An underrated gem in the lineup is the Longines Record collection. It’s not talked about as often as some of Longines’ more mainstream offerings, but it’s a watch that deserves more attention.

The Record pairs vintage-inspired design with impressive mechanical technology, featuring movements equipped with a silicon balance spring for added durability and accuracy. Even more impressively, these movements are chronometer-certified by COSC, meaning they’ve passed rigorous precision tests. 

Ultimately, there’s a Longines watch for nearly every taste, lifestyle, and occasion. Even if you’ve not seen something here that takes your fancy, we highly recommend exploring their collection in more detail. There are plenty more models I’ve not had the time to mention, all with serious specs, a beautiful history and an accessible price tag. 

Conclusion 

As I’ve hopefully explained, Longines stands out in the crowded world of luxury watches for far more than its widespread visibility and strong marketing presence. While it’s true that the brand’s association with prestigious sporting events and high-profile sponsorships has certainly made its name known, there’s a deeper story at play here. 

Longines is a brand that blends centuries of heritage with modern innovation, crafting timepieces that reflect both precision and elegance. Its long-standing reputation for high-quality movements, along with a diverse range of designs to suit any lifestyle, ensures that it remains a favorite for watch enthusiasts. 

But what truly sets it apart is the ability to deliver Swiss-made luxury at a price that’s accessible without compromising on craftsmanship or quality. We all want a watch that looks and feels the part, but we don’t always have the tens of thousands of dollars to achieve that with other watchmakers. Thankfully, with brands like Longines, you get the best of both worlds. So yes, Longines watches are worth buying.