The Longines Heritage Classic, Now With Black Sector Dial and BoR Bracelet

Longines is well-known for being one of the most prolific brands when it comes to paying tribute to its past, and reissuing some of its most glorious vintage models. All positioned under the “Heritage” collection, there is one watch in this range that made quite some noise when introduced back in 2019, the Longines Heritage Classic Sector Dial. Compact, faithful, elegant and playing on 1930s inspirations, it was an immediate success. Following the silver edition, the winged hourglass comes back this year with a new model. Meet the Longines Heritage Classic Black Sector Dial, and with the option for a cool beads of rice bracelet.

The Longines Heritage Classic is a watch that boasts all the elements of a typical 1930s piece. Think Calatrava-styled case with stepped bezel, straight lugs, two-tone dial with a so-called sector, combining markers and Arabic numerals, clean hands and a central crosshair… No need to mention that such vintage watches are now highly sought-after during auctions, and Longines was no stranger to the production of such models pre-WWII. Indeed, the first Heritage Classic of 2019, with its silver dial and blue contrasting elements was a faithful, yet slightly modernized reproduction of an actual vintage Longines watch. And, as you can imagine, there were also some versions (or relatively close models) with dark-coloured dials too. And this explains why, for the 2021 collection, the brand adds a Black Sector Dial edition of its Longines Heritage Classic watch.

The base for this Longines Heritage Classic Black Sector Dial remains identical to the silver edition, colour of the dial excluded. This means a relatively compact stainless steel case, measuring 38.50mm in diameter for approximately 10mm in height. The shape is also reminiscent of 1930s Calatrava watches, with straight lugs, a stepped bezel and a box sapphire crystal that mimics antique plexiglass crystals. The case is mostly brushed, resulting in an understated look. Specifications remain identical, with a solid steel caseback and a water-resistance of 30 metres.

What really matters for this 2021 edition is the dial. Once again, Longines relies on classic vintage codes, with a two-tone dial. Indeed, the central part is matte black while the hour chapter ring, which is framed by the sector and encloses the hour markers and numerals, is circular brushed and charcoal-coloured. We find back the central crosshair as well as the small seconds indicator at 6 o’clock. All numerals and tracks are here white printed and the hands are polished and silvered-coloured. Just like the case, this makes for a satisfying mix of elegance and restrained instrumental design.

Hidden under the polished caseback with engraved logos and specifications is a well-known automatic movement, the calibre L893. This engine, based on an ETA 2892 architecture, is exclusive to Longines and comes with multiple upgrades to make it a highly competitive offer. The whole kinetic chain has been reworked, with a slightly reduced frequency (3.5Hz or 25,200 vibrations/hour) and elongated power reserve (72 hours). It is also fitted with an anti-magnetic silicon balance spring. Note that this movement has been developed specifically for the Heritage collection, with a small seconds shifted downwards, in order to respect the original proportions of the vintage models.

Another important evolution concerns the addition of a stainless steel bracelet option. When the silver dial model was launched, many owners quickly removed the leather strap and decided to wear their Longines Heritage Classic Sector Dial on aftermarket beads of rice bracelets – and rightfully so, as it really complements the design of this watch. Well, Longines took note and now comes with its own version of a beads of rice bracelet, with alternating brushed and polished surfaces, straight end-links and a folding clasp with safety pushers. The Heritage Classic Black Sector Dial will also be available on a cognac-coloured leather strap with a “pull up effect” surface, so the material will age and gain patina.

The Longines Heritage Classic Black Sector Dial (ref. L2.828.4.53.2 on leather strap and L2.828.4.53.6 on steel bracelet) will soon be available from retailers and from the brand’s online boutique. It will be part of the permanent collection and won’t be limited in production. It comes with a 5-year guarantee. The price will be EUR 1,920, CHF 1,900 or USD 2,150 on leather strap and EUR 2,120, CHF 2,100 or USD 2,350 on steel bracelet.

For more details, please visit www.longines.com.