Longines

Fri, Jul 9, 2010

Brands

A good reputation is something that is rather hard to come by. A reputation known around the world is almost impossible to maintain. That means that those things which are known for being superior on a global level are usually of impeccable quality. This is especially true when dealing with mens watches made in Switzerland. The Swiss have been known for clock making for centuries, and their modern wares do not in any way disappoint. Of course, even among Swiss timepieces, there are still some makers who are more well known and admired than others.

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What We Love About Longines

Longines is exactly that kind of company. Even in the well regarded Swiss market, these chronographs stand out for their stunning beauty and craftsmanship. This brand is one of the most well known in the chronography market, and for good reason. They make simply beautiful timepieces that stand up to the test of time. One of the things that we really like about this company is their extreme and skillful balance of functionality, durability, and elegance. So many luxury timepieces seem almost too delicate to use in an everyday setting. Not so with these devices, which are almost as rugged as they are unique. This company has models with more than twenty diamonds on the face, which are still water resistant to thirty meters, and made with a scratch resistant sapphire crystal. That’s to say nothing of their sport lines, which are built to even more extreme technical standards.

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Another reason that we really like this brand is their connection with sports. Their dedication to technical research led them to produce the first timed photo finish device, as well as numerous other innovations in sports timing. This company has also been an important part of aviation history. Charles Lindbergh, on his famous flight across the Atlantic, had the assistance of Longines instruments. This dedication to advancement is something that guides this company, and another reason why we think they’re a top manufacturer.

Some Things We Don’t Like about Longines

It’s almost difficult to think of a reason not to like these wonderful devices, but there are a few minor issues. While their workmanship is superior and their style is elegant to the extreme, there are not nearly as many stylistic innovations as there are technical ones. While one can hardly fault a nearly two hundred year old company for honoring tradition, this might not be the trendiest or most up to date designer. As a result, those looking for the latest styles might not find exactly what they were looking for, although they’re almost certain to find something they love.

History of the Brand

The story of the Longines watch is one of the most interesting things about the company. This storied manufacturer produced their first watches as early as 1832. In those days, timepieces were still made under a cottage system, wherein craftsman labored separately in their homes. This was one of the first companies to introduce the idea of a centralized factory to both speed production and ensure a high standard of quality. Interestingly, this company’s name and logo, a winged hourglass, are the oldest brand symbols still being used today.

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