The Longines Heritage Military is a faithful re-edition of a rare 1940s British Royal Air Force pilot's watch supplied to a radio operator. Its most distinctive feature is the hand-sprayed black specks on the dial, a meticulous detail that authentically recreates the patina and oxidation of the original vintage model. The oversized "onion" crown and thermally blued steel hands further contribute to its period-correct military aesthetic. Powering the watch is the automatic Longines Calibre L888.5, which features a silicon balance spring for enhanced magnetic resistance.
Founded in Saint-Imier in 1832, Longines is one of the most enduring watchmaker, identified by its winged hourglass logo—the oldest registered trademark for a watchmaker in continuous use. The brand was an early pioneer of industrialized watch production, establishing a formidable reputation as a true manufacture capable of producing exceptionally engineered movements.
Longines then took various role as the official timekeeper for championship sports and as an indispensable instrument for the pioneers of aviation, including Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart. Today, as a cornerstone of the Swatch Group, Longines expertly leverages its vast archives, particularly through its celebrated Heritage collection, which offers faithful recreations of its most significant historical references.
Overall Grade: 9 / 10 | Mint Condition, Light Signs of Wear Production: 2019 Contents: Full-set Genre: Field Watch
Size: 38.5mm Thickness: 11.7mm Lug Width: 19mm
Case: Stainless steel round case, brush and mirror finished Bezel: Stainless steel, fixed, mirror finished Dial: Opaline faux-patina dial, painted Arabic numerals Hands: Blued steel spade hands
Crown: Stainless steel, push/pull onion crown Crystal: Domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Bracelet: Brown leather strap with buckle, Full-set Caseback: Solid stainless steel, screw-down, engraved, Full-set Movement: Automatic Caliber: L888