The Longines watch company is a Swiss luxury watch brand that has been around for over 180 years. The company was founded in 1832 in the town of Saint-Imier by Auguste Agassiz, who had experience in the watchmaking industry. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high quality watches that were both accurate and reliable.
Longines produced its first chronograph watch in 1868 which was used to time horse races. This was the beginning of a long history of the brand’s association with sports, particularly equestrianism. The company also became known for producing elegant and stylish watches for men and women.
In 1912 Longines became an official supplier of the International Aeronautical Federation and began producing aviation watches. These watches were designed to be both accurate and easy to read, even in low light conditions. Longines went on to become the official timekeeper of several aviation events, including the first transatlantic flight.
During World War II, Longines produced watches for the RAF, the US Army Air Force, and the French Air Force. These watches were designed to be rugged and reliable, and they were used by pilots and other military personnel. We still see these watches on a fairly regular basis in our workshop – testament to their rugged design!
In the post-war years, Longines continued to innovate and produce high-quality watches. In 1952, the company introduced the Calibre 30CH – an automatic chronograph movement, which was a major milestone in the history of the brand.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Longines continued to produce a wide range of watches for both men and women. The company also expanded its sports-related activities, becoming the official timekeeper of several international sports events, including the Olympic Games.
In 1983, Longines was acquired by the Swatch Group, which is one of the largest watchmaking companies in the world. Under Swatch Group ownership, Longines continued to produce high-quality watches and expand its sports-related activities. The company became the official timekeeper of several major international sporting events, including the Commonwealth Games and the World Equestrian Games.
Today, Longines is known for producing elegant and sophisticated watches that combine traditional watchmaking techniques with modern technology. The company’s watches are highly sought after by collectors and watch enthusiasts, and they are often seen on the wrists of celebrities and public figures. Popular Longines models include the Conquest, Les Classiques, Evidenza and Dolce Vita.
Do you have a Longines watch in need of repair? Get in contact with us to see how we can help. Our fully equipped workshop based in Lewes, Sussex and expert watchmakers are able to repair almost any make and model of watch, modern or vintage. We accept repairs through our stores in Lewes and Uckfield as well as from clients all around the UK via our fully insured, secure postal repairs service. We are Business Partners of the British Horological Association and holders of a Platinum Trusted Service award from Feefo – testament of our commitment to excellent work and exceptional customer service.
Yours sincerely
David Clark FGA DGA MJVA PJDip. PJGemDip.
Managing Director, JVA Registered Valuer®
W.E. Clark & Son Limited