Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. The Updated Longines Master Chronograph Moonphase (Incl. Video)
A classic with full calendar and moon phase, sutbly reinvented.
As the most complex expression of Longines’ watchmaking capabilities, the Master Chronograph Moonphase can be considered not only the collection’s flagship, but also one of the brand’s poster boys. Ever since its introduction in 2005, it has been part of the Master line-up, pairing some of the most classical and well-loved indications into a single, elegantly styled watch. For 2026, following the rejuvenation of the collection earlier this year, it was only a matter of time for the Master Chronograph Moonphase to be updated as well.
This sophisticated watch, catering to all who seek a classical, elegant wristwatch for everyday wear with a bit of complexity and showmanship, is now more refined than ever. The case design follows suit with the rest of the Master collection, which was updated not too long ago. Compared to the outgoing model, Longines puts this new Master Chronograph Moonphase right in between. Previously, it came in 40mm and 42mm sizes, both with a height of 14mm. This new Master Chronograph Moonphase, however, combines the two in a 41mm case diameter and a height of 13.80mm.
So while we get a little less to choose from, for now at least, we do get a very wearable watch in return. Plus, and that’s always a good thing, one that is a touch slimmer. The finishing is to be expected, with a largely polished case with a brushed and polished bracelet for contrast, and a knurled crown that is flanked by pump-style pushers. A sapphire crystal covers the dial, with a second one covering the movement around the back.
For the silvery-white dial, Longines has put the Master Chronograph Moonphase through the same makeover as the rest of the collection. The most notable change might be the sloping minute flange on the previous generation, which is now flattened and paired with the date scale and a vertical edge along the entire outside perimeter of the dial. The barleycorn pattern has also been updated and is now more refined, while the layout has remained untouched. From the heart, you get the hours, minutes and pointer date, along with the chronograph seconds. In the top subdial, you have the chronograph 30-minute counter, with integrated day of the week and month displays. On the left side, we get a running seconds and 24-hour subdial, and in the bottom, the chronograph 12-hour counter reveals the titular moonphase.
The moonphase disc itself is as classical as can be, with a dark blue base and gold coloured moon and stars for decoration. There really is quite a lot going on, yet it feels coherent, elegant and, in all honesty, quite legible! Add to that applied blued numerals, beveling on the windows, snailing in the subdials and so on, and it’s all looking rather lovely.
The calibre L687.5 that can be seen through the caseback is a deep evolution of the Valjoux 7750, and exclusive to Longines. It’s also the brand’s most complex movement currently in use. To make sure it functions as smoothly as can be, it’s fitted with a column wheel, as well as a free-sprung balance with a silicon hairspring. This improves the movement’s corrosion resistance as well as its anti-magnetic properties. Running at a rate of 28,800vph, it packs up to 66 hours of running time. The finishing is neatly done, with a rotor that has a winged hourglass cut-out, the brand’s name engraved and filled in gold, and Côtes de Genève on top. The column wheel is finished in blue to spice things up a bit, and you get perlage on the bridges and mainplate.
The Longines Master Chronograph Moonphase comes on a dark blue alligator leather strap or a stainless steel bracelet, as mentioned. On both, the folding clasp is micro-adjustable, which is always a pleasure. The price is set at CHF 3,500, which feels quite reasonable. With the Master Chronograph Moonphase, Longines adds a new flagship model to its portfolio, and not just the Master collection. It’s the most complex watch in the current range, with a myriad of indications neatly spread around the dial. The updates certainly help to freshen things up, and it honestly looks and feels very good, as we have come to expect from the brand.
For more information, please visit longines.com.
