LOnginEs

ElEgancE isn’T an opTion

Dan Diaconu

Evolution oblige, dive watches have succeeded in tailoring to on-land environments. Take, for example, Longines’ reference 6921 Nautilus Skin Diver unveiled back in 1959! This timepiece, a trailblazer in underwater exploration, never stopped adapting to the elements and to the stylistic trends of its era. Its direct descendent, the 7042 Super Compressor from 1960, introduced a second crown at 2 o’clock along its caseband in addition to the crown dedicated to setting the time that moved to 4 o’clock. Thanks to this second device, divers could adjust the mobile flange that bore the same indications as a rotating bezel, a graduated 60-minute scale. And, its existence wasn’t just a question of style. It eliminated any risk of unintentional turning during immersions! The 2007-launched Longines Legend Diver

Watch boasts similar genes. Every piece in this collection, perfectly at home with aquatic- and city-life adventures, has all it takes to fulfil our desires, push our ocean-limits further and make sure we’re totally in tune with the times. In 2009, a date appeared on the scene at 3 o’clock on the amphibious models. Since then, a host of dial variations make watchmaking yearnings come true.

As this year dawns, the brand from Saint Imier reveals unprecedented adaptations espousing the sturdy 42 mm-diameter steel case, waterproof to depths of 300 m. The new faces, adorning sandy-beige or gradienttoned ash-grey and lacquered and topped with a domed sapphire crystal, gift the hour and minute hands with an ever-so soft decor. The existence of a

THE brand from sainT imiEr rEvEals unprEcEdEnTEd adapTaTions Espousing THE sTurdy casE.

THE nEw dial colour variaTions EnsurE THis rEfErEncE is ToTally in TunE wiTH THE TimEs.

matching fabric strap boosts this visual harmony even more. Yet, this natural elegance in no way affects the watch’s marine penchants. The indexes, hands and numerals, set off with white SuperLumiNova®, ensure optimal readability under any conditions of light.

Longines also proposes novel dial interpretations for its 36 mm cases, a size showcased for the first time in this range in 2019. The true-to-you royal blue, deep burgundy and delicate gradient-toned ecru meet the style wishes of discerning up-to-the-minute wrists.

Whichever diameter or shade you choose to go for, all these references are driven by self-winding movements equipped with a silicon balance spring insensitive to the negative effects of gravity. The bigger model pursues its route with the highlyefficient, reliable L888.5 calibre. It delivers a power reserve of some 72 hours. As for the 36 mm watches, they host the L592.5 calibre that ensures autonomy of at least 45 hours. These devices are protected by a screwed caseback decorated with the traditional engraved diver, a signature design since the 1960s. Timeless, pareddown lines, accurate movement and an array of suitable colours ensure The Longines Legend Diver Watch is as attractive as ever.