Longines is renowned for being one of the most prolific brands when it comes to paying homage to its past and reissuing some of its most magnificent vintage models. All are positioned within the "Heritage" collection, and among them, one watch made quite a splash when introduced in 2019 - the Longines Heritage Classic Sector Dial. Compact, faithful, elegant, crafted in the spirit of the 1930s, they immediately gained success. Following the silver edition, the winged hourglass returns this year with a new model. Meet the Longines Heritage Classic with a black sector dial and the option of a cool beads of rice bracelet.
The Longines Heritage Classic is a watch that boasts all the elements of a typical 1930s model. A Calatrava-style case with a stepped bezel, straight lugs, a two-tone dial with a so-called sector that combines markers and Arabic numerals, clean hands, and a central crosshair... There's no need to mention that such vintage watches are highly sought after at auctions today, and Longines was no stranger to producing such models before World War II. Indeed, the first 2019 Heritage Classic model with a silver dial and blue contrasting elements was an accurate yet slightly modernized reproduction of genuine vintage Longines watches. And, as you might imagine, there were also some versions (or relatively close models) with dark-colored dials. This explains why, for the 2021 collection, the brand adds the Longines Heritage Classic with a Black Sector Dial.
The basis of this Longines Heritage Classic Black Sector Dial model remains identical to the silver version, except for the dial color. This means a relatively compact stainless steel case with a diameter of 38.50 mm and a height of about 10 mm. The shape is reminiscent of 1930s Calatrava watches: straight lugs, a stepped bezel, and sapphire glass emulating vintage plexiglass crystals. The case is mostly matte, giving it a subdued appearance. The technical specifications remain identical: a solid steel case back and 30-meter water resistance.
What really matters for this 2021 release is the dial. Once again, Longines relies on classic vintage codes, offering a two-tone dial. Indeed, the central part is matte black, while the chapter ring, framed by the sector and containing the hour markers and numerals, is round matte and charcoal-colored. At the back, we find the central crosshair, as well as a small seconds indicator at the "6 o'clock" position. All the numerals and tracks are applied with white paint, while the hands are polished and silvered. Like the case, this creates a satisfying combination of elegance and restrained instrumental design.
Under the polished case back engraved with logos and specifications lies the well-known automatic movement, caliber L893. This movement, based on the ETA 2892 architecture, is exclusive to Longines and comes with numerous upgrades, making it a highly competitive offering. The entire kinetic chain has been redesigned, with a slightly reduced frequency (3.5 Hz or 25,200 vibrations/hour) and an increased power reserve (72 hours). It is also equipped with an anti-magnetic silicon balance spring. Note that this movement was specifically developed for the Heritage collection, with a small seconds hand shifted down to maintain the original proportions of vintage models.
Another important evolution is the addition of a stainless steel bracelet. When the silver dial model was released, many owners quickly removed the leather strap and opted to wear their Longines Heritage Classic Sector Dial on rice bracelets - and rightly so, as they truly complement the design of these watches. Longines took note of this and now releases its own version of the rice bracelet with alternating matte and polished surfaces, straight end links, and a folding clasp with safety push-buttons. The Heritage Classic Black Sector Dial will also be available on a cognac-colored leather strap with a "pull-up effect" surface, allowing the material to age and develop a patina.
The Longines Heritage Classic Black Sector Dial (ref. L2.828.4.53.2 on a leather strap and L2.828.4.53.6 on a steel bracelet) will soon be available in retail and in the brand's online boutique. The watch will be part of the permanent collection and will not be limited in production. The watch comes with a 5-year warranty. The price will be 1,920 euros, 1,900 Swiss francs or 2,150 USD on a leather strap and 2,120 euros, 2,100 Swiss francs or 2,350 USD on a steel bracelet.
For more detailed information, visit www.longines.com.
