The name Longines has long been associated with breathtaking feats achieved by pioneers who have always dared to go beyond their limits, notably in underwater exploration. In the 1950s the brand supplied measuring instruments for the bathyscaphe Trieste, which set a diving record in 1953. In addition to technical equipment, Longines also produced robust and reliable watches intended for use by keen amateur divers. Dating from the 1970s, two such models have been taken as inspiration for the new The Longines Heritage Diver watch.
Available in two versions, one with three hands and the other a chronograph, these new models boast a black, satin-finish dial that elegantly combines red highlights with details coated with Super-LumiNova®. Moreover, both versions feature a bidirectional rotating inner flange. Like the original creations, the two new models have a diameter of 43 mm. The case back, crown and bezel are screwed in, thus ensuring water-resistance to 30 bar (300 metres). The cushion-shaped steel case has a brushed sunburst decoration on the upper surface and is polished around the sides. The case back is engraved with the figure of a diver, recalling the first diving watches produced by Longines.
The model with 3 hands differs from the other with its daring mix of colours set off by the black dial, namely one red hand and red minute zones, touches of Super-LumiNova® coating and grey rhodium plating. The graduated scale from 0 up to 60 enables the diver to calculate how long he or she has been underwater by synchronising the 12 o’clock hour symbol with the minute hand. The inner flange is activated using the crown at 2 o’clock. The chronograph version boasts the same colour scheme, but in contrast the graduated scale on the flange goes from 60 down to 0. This enables the diver to calculate the remaining time, for example to allow for decompression when returning to the surface, by synchronising a given point with the minute hand. The new The Longines Heritage Diver watches are fitted on a black synthetic or rubber strap.