These days, Longines is undoubtedly more renowned in the field of chronographs and elegant vintage-style watches. However, it should not be forgotten that the brand also has a rather large collection of sports watches, including some very powerful yet quite affordable diver's watches called the HydroConquest. First released in 2007, this model has since made its mark in the category and was completely revamped in 2018, receiving upgraded materials, a simplified design, and strong mechanical features. This year, the collection is expanding again with 11 new releases. Stylish, less tool-like, a bit more lifestyle-oriented, yet still reliable diving watches that can be used and abused - this is the Longines HydroConquest 41mm Two-Tone Collection.
Longines is no stranger to the concept of diving watches. Of course, pilot chronographs and elegant models of the 1940s come to mind first, but this is without mentioning two extremely attractive models - the Skin Diver and the Legend Diver. But these are historical models that have naturally been redesigned. The HydroConquest is something different, more mainstream but no less capable. This collection, existing for almost 15 years, embodies the essence of modern sports watches focused on water sports. Reliable diving watches with 300m water resistance, modern design, clean looks, and all the necessary equipment for recreational diving. Yes, it's a classic, but in a good way.
An important milestone in the life of the Longines HydroConquest came in 2018 when the brand decided to undergo a strong update. The design became cleaner, slightly less harsh, but more modern, materials were updated, including even a ceramic bezel insert, and the mechanism was updated with the brand's latest technologies to maintain a competitive edge. The watches are available in several series, and you can choose between 43mm and 41mm cases. And now, from this year, you have the option of a two-tone case.
THE COOL LOOK OF TWO-TONE CASES
Recently, we have been witnessing quite a strong revival of two-tone, steel, and gold watches, possibly due to the return of the 1980s in fashion… And, admittedly, when everything is done correctly and in moderation, the subtle inclusion of gold on sports watches can be quite pleasing. Provided it is not too flashy, it can even add a certain freshness and casualness to usually super-serious models.
So, did Longines manage to do just that with the new HydroConquest 41mm Two-Tone Collection? The short answer is yes. The idea behind these new models was to include relatively discreet gold elements located on the bezel, the crown, and the dial (applied indices and hands). You can even choose a two-tone metal bracelet, but of course, this will not be as discreet. Note that all gold elements are achieved through PVD coating, so their impact on the final price is also minimal, which is important in this category. The gold elements are available in yellow or rose gold tones. And, as you can see in our photos of two watches with contrasting rose gold details, the result is quite subtle and only adds a cool warmth to the watches - especially in the gray model (in my opinion, the most beautiful of all), where the combination with rose gold works particularly well.
What Longines has done is give its modern diving watch collection a lifestyle style, making it less serious, less conventional, and, to be honest, it adds that little “je-ne-sais-quoi” that was missing from the classic steel models… an additional layer of personality that enhances the appeal of this collection. But do not think that the watches have lost their diving capabilities. They remain the same capable, reliable diver.
The case of these two-tone Longines HydroConquest measures 41mm in diameter and about 12mm in height. The shape is rather bulky but not without interest, with some character, especially in the crown, which has a clear pointed design. The case is fully matte and seems very well-made and assembled. It has everything needed for a diver engaged in recreational activity: sapphire crystal with AR coating, a large and comfortable screw-down crown, a massive steel case back with beautiful engraving, and a unidirectional rotating bezel. In the latest releases of the Longines HydroConquest, the insert is made from scratch-resistant polished ceramic with the necessary 60-minute scale and a luminescent pearl at the 0 mark.
Regarding the dial, combined with these gold-colored elements, you have a wide choice of colors; blue, black, and medium-gray colors with a matte sunray pattern are available; a matte green color has also been introduced, although we have not seen it yet. In addition to the new applied gold-colored indices and hands that match the bezel and crown, the dials are identical to the classic steel editions, with the same large Arabic numerals and applied dots, as well as a date window at the “3 o’clock” position - which is quite logical given the more mass-market purpose of this collection.
The new two-tone Longines HydroConquest uses the self-winding caliber L888. The movement has an improved 72-hour power reserve compared to the previous 64-hour runtime of the 2018 models. It also features a silicon balance spring for protection against magnetic forces and beats at a rate of 25,200 vibrations per hour. As always, this mechanism distinguishes the watches from other models with the 2824 engine and provides a strong competitive edge.
AVAILABILITY AND PRICE
The Longines HydroConquest 41mm Two-Tone model is available in 11 different versions, with rubber straps matching the dial color and closing with a folding clasp with a push-button release, or a metal bracelet with a folding clasp and diving extension. Regardless of the color or type of bracelet/strap, all models cost 1,680 euros and are already available in the Longines online boutique or at retailers.
For more detailed information, visit longines.com.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS – LONGINES HYDROCONQUEST 41MM TWO-TONE
Case: 41mm diameter x 12mm height – stainless steel, matte and polished, rose or yellow gold elements with PVD coating – sapphire crystal with AR coating – unidirectional bezel with 60-minute ceramic insert – screw-down crown and case back – water resistance 300 meters
Dial: dial/bezel offered in black, blue, or gray color, as well as matte green color. Bezel insert matches dial color – Arabic numerals, indices, and hands with Super-LumiNova coating
Movement: caliber L888 (ETA A31.L02) – automatic – 21 jewels – 25.60mm – power reserve 72h – 25,200 vibrations/hour – silicon balance – hours, minutes, seconds, date
Bracelet: steel bracelet with gold PVD-coated central links, folding clasp with diving extension – or rubber strap matching dial color, folding clasp with push-button release
Availability: Now available on the Longines website or at retailers
Price: All models priced at 1,680 euros