Longines Heritage Swiss Automatic Classic Watches Review

Longines Heritage collection demonstrates strong Vacheron Constantin Malte and Vacheron Constantin Patrimony visual references. Like these collections, Heritage watches use “dauphine” hands, and employ matching sharp indexes, single or doubled. The indexes seem to parry the sword shaped hands, creating an interesting visual interplay – this is why this is such a successful design. All Longines Heritage watches incorporate purely mechanical automatic calibers with over forty hours of power reserve. Basic, classically elegant round case repeats the Master Collection design.

Besides the original dial pattern of “dauphine” hands (often covered with Superluminova) and “shark tooth” indices, Longines Heritage relies on a simple design scheme: black alligator strap, and a metal case – stainless steel or gold, rose or yellow. The insistence on using leather straps is not incidental. As implied by the title, this collection's purpose is to preserve Longines values, and to project that intent to the customers. Straps, especially black ones, carry the aura of tradition much more effectively than bracelets. The combination of skin and metal generates a sense of comfort that has continued for centuries. Wearing such a watch evokes a sense of sitting ensconced in a comfortable leather sofa.

Another notable change is the abandonment of the “arena” design, where bezel and dial configuration makes the face of the watch resemble a theater stage. Though some models (the more complicated ones) retain the arena, most abandon the theatrics, presenting a simple dial consistent with the collection's traditionalist ambitions.

Longines Heritage don't go as far as Vacheron Constantin regarding the range of complications. Chronograph, calendar, day, and date comprise the complications in this line, most of them concentrating in two models. Date aperture travels from twelve to six o'clock in different versions; one watch offers an analogue date indicator, using a half moon (somewhat Muslim inspired) central calendar hand.

Materials include stainless steel, gold, alligator skin and Hesalite glass (the one used in Omega Speedsmaster) instead of the conventional sapphire crystal.