Longines has been killing it with their heritage collection, the brand’s archival greatest hits that we covered in a bit more detail here. Now heading into 2020, they show no signs of halting the hit train with their first vintage-inspired watch of the year, the Longines Heritage Classic Chronograph 1946.
As the name suggests, the basis for the new watch is a production piece from 1946, a faithful recreation of a no-nonsense chronograph timekeeper. The case indeed is nothing if not utilitarian, coming in at 40mm across is a svelte yet practical number.
The dial on the other hand has a bit more flair to it, with black italicised dolphin numerals against stark white. The numerals have an unusual depth to them, setting this nicely apart from the various military chronos of the 40s. Paired with blue steel hands and a minute track around the edge, it’s an effortlessly lovely combination.
Spot the difference: Longines Heritage Classic Chronograph 1946 (left) and the original watch from 1946 (right).
As ever with a modern re-interpretation the movement is the only real modern touch. In this case it’s the Calibre L895.5 automatic chronograph movement, an ETA-based number with a solid 54-hour power reserve. Not that you can see it of course; the final touch to the Chronograph 1946 is an era-appropriate solid caseback, imprinted with the vintage Longines hourglass logo.
So not much has changed since last year. It’s another heritage release, another bullseye from Longines. They seem to have found the formula that keeps on giving and, as long as they’re still happy to keep raiding their archives, they’ll keep finding their way onto our collective wishlist.
Price & Specs:
Model Name: Longines Heritage Classic Chronograph 1946
Reference: L2.827.4.73.0
Case/Dial: 40mm diameter, stainless steel
Water resistance: 30m (3 bar)
Movement: Calibre L895, automatic with self winding
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds at 3 o’clock
Frequency: 28’800 vph
Power Reserve: 54h
Strap: Leather strap with buckle
Price: £2,490
More details at Longine’s website.
