Compagnie des Montres Longines, Francillon S.A., or simply Longines, was founded in 1832 by Auguste Agassiz. It is a reputable Swiss watchmaker based in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Longines is a subsidiary of The Swatch Group.
Longines has a rich history in the world of watchmaking, and its products are highly sought-after by collectors and aficionados alike. The brand is perhaps most well-known for its winged hourglass logo which was registered in 1889, and is the oldest unchanged yet still active trademark registered with WIPO.
In terms of its products, Longines is perhaps best known for its elegant timepieces, many of which are inspired by the art deco style of the 1920s. The brand also has a strong association with sports, and has been the official timekeeper for numerous international sporting events.
So, with its long history, well-known associations, and famous timepieces, watches, is Longines considered a luxury brand?
Is Longines A Luxury Brand?
Longines is definitely a luxury brand. It has a long and rich history, affiliation with some of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, and its products are highly sought-after by collectors. Additionally, It is still exclusively made locally in Switzerland while releasing affordable watches priced less that $1,000.
1. The Company’s History
One of the main reasons that Longines is considered a luxury brand is its long and rich history. The company was founded all the way back in 1832, making it one of the oldest watch brands in the world. In its over 180 years of existence, Longines has amassed a wealth of experience and expertise in the world of watchmaking. This is evident in the quality and craftsmanship of its products.
2. The Company’s Affiliation With Other Luxury Brands
Longines is also famous for its affiliation with some of the most prestigious sporting events in the world. The brand has been the official timekeeper for a number of high-profile events such as horse racing, Formula 1, and basketball. This gives Longines a certain level of prestige, recognition, and exclusivity.
3. The Company’s Products
Of course, one of the main reasons that Longines is considered a luxury brand is its products. The company produces some of the most beautiful and elegant timepieces in the world. Many of its watches are inspired by the art deco style of the 1920s.
Longines also offers a wide range of sporty watches, which are perfect for those who lead an active lifestyle. It has developed its first chronograph movement, the 20H. The name of the caliber comes from its frequency in Hertz. The 20H was used in several Longines watches, including the famous Lindbergh Hour Angle Watch.
The 20H became one of Longines’ most important movements and was used in a number of different watches over the years. It is still considered to be one of the finest movements ever made.
4. It Offers Collector’s Item Watches
Longines is also well-known for producing collector’s item watches. These are timepieces that are highly sought-after by watch aficionados and collectors. Many of the brand’s most famous watches are considered to be collector’s items.
The Lindbergh Hour Angle Watch, for example, is one of the most iconic and collectible Longines watches. This watch was designed by Charles Lindbergh and was used by him on his famous transatlantic flight.
5. It Offers Exclusivity
While Longines offer affordable watches priced at $800, but for majority of people the amount is still considered expensive. The brand is still exclusive and considered a luxury. It does not produce mass-market watches that are affordable for everyone.
Also, when it comes to the manufacturing of its watches, Longines still relies on local Swiss craftsmanship. This ensures that each timepiece is made to the highest standards.
Thus, authentic Longine watches have a unique serial number that is used to identify the watch. This number can be found on the back of the case and on the movement. The brand also offers a wide range of services to its customers. These include repairs, replacements, and valuations.
6. The Manufacturing Process
Another factor that makes Longines a luxury brand is the manufacturing process of its watches. The brand still relies on local Swiss craftsmanship to produce its timepieces that make each watch made with the utmost care and attention to detail.
And because of the limited numbers of watched produced by the company, its watches are sought-after. This is also the reason why people won’t easily see it on the wrists of others, or sold in every shop.
7. The Brand’s Reputation
Finally, Longines has built up an excellent reputation over the years. This is another reason why it is considered a luxury brand. The brand is known for its quality products and its dedication to customer service. It has also been associated with a number of prestigious sporting events.
This has helped to solidify the brand’s position as a luxury watchmaker. People who are looking for a quality timepiece that will last them a long time often choose Longines.
Does A Longines Watch Hold Value?
Longines watches definitely hold a good value. The better the model or more features included, there’s a higher chance for a good value. Also, it is said that a Longines watch lasts for years which giving a person back the worth of the money he spent to buy the watch.
In terms of resale value, it is possible to get a good value for a Longines watch. However, it is important to keep in mind that the resale value may or may not never be as high as the original purchase price. Unless the watch to be resold is a collector piece.
This is because watches, like any other piece of jewelry, have the possibility to depreciate in value over time. However, if you take good care of your watch and keep it in good condition, you can expect to get a good resale value for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Longines a good investment?
Yes, Longines watches are definitely a good investment. As mentioned above, the brand is known for its quality products and its dedication to customer service. Its products are well-crafted with good designs and would last for many years, with proper care.
What is the most popular Longines watch?
In reality there are many Longines watches that are popular. But it is worth mentioning that the Conquest V.H.P. watches are popular because it is comfortable to wear, with timeless design, and considered affordable for a luxury brand of watches. There are different Conquest V.H.P. watches available which are priced anywhere between $1,000 to $1,7000.
Is a Longines watch a mechanical watch?
Longines offers both mechanical and quartz timepieces.
A mechanical watch is a watch that uses a mechanism powered by a spring, to keep track of the time. This type of watch is generally more accurate than a quartz watch. However, it requires more maintenance and is generally more expensive.
A quartz watch, on the other hand, uses an electronic movement powered by a battery. Quartz watches are less expensive and require less maintenance than mechanical watches. However, they are not as accurate as mechanical watches.
