Longines Unveils New Master Collection GMT Models

Longines Master Collection has expanded with two new limited edition GMT Models!

Longines Master Collection is arguably the best representation of the brand’s elegant luxury model range. The Master collection was first launched in 2005, and since then has seen a lot of success. The models in the Master Collection suit various tastes, from the chronograph models and simple three-handers to the moon phase complications. Now, the latest complication to be added to the current Master Collection is the GMT.

One of my favourite timepieces from the Master Collection is the Chronograph Triple Calendar Moonphase model, due to its styling and elegant finish without even considering the host of complications the model has. I’m glad the new Master Collection GMT has carried much of these elegant aesthetics across, namely the Roman hour indices and the 24-hour track on the outer part of the dial (where the date track is on the chronograph model).

Longines is offering the new Master Collection GMT models in two variants, in either 18-carat yellow gold or 18-carat rose gold. Each of these variants will be limited to a production of 500 timepieces. Both versions are offered in 40mm case sizes, which, as a dress watch, is a great size. Anywhere from 38mm to 40mm suits the wrists well. The beautiful polished finishes of the case offer elegant styling, as the precious materials luxuriously play with light.

The dial design is kept simple, with a three-hander layout to tell the normal time on a frosted silver dial (for both variants), with an additional GMT hand to indicate the second time zone. As mentioned earlier, the hour indices are Roman numerals, and the hour and minute hands have a gilt-style design. An easy-to-read 24-hour scale runs around the edge of the dial, with a black GMT hand clearly indicating the second timezone.

The engine powering these new Master Collection GMT models is an exclusive Longines L844.5 calibre movement. This self-winding mechanical movement beats at a high frequency of 25,200 Vph (3.5hz) and gives out a pretty decent power reserve of 3 days (72 hours). One of the stand-out features of this Longines L844.5 calibre movement is its magnetic resistance. The magnetic resistance of the movement is up to 10 times greater than what is required from the ISO 764 watchmaking code benchmark that is required.

Turn the watch over, and you are treated to an open case back showcasing the Longines L844.5 calibre movement and its beautiful finishing. What stands out in this case back is the winding rotor, which is made from the respective case materials. Longines has also given the rotor a “Côtes de Genève” finish, which actually makes the rotor stand out beautifully in either the 18-carat gold or rose gold finish. The rotor has also been hollowed out in the shape of the Longines winged hourglass logo, along with the “Longines” and “L844.5” inscriptions in contrasting black.

Final Thoughts

Both precious metals offer great styling for this new GMT watch, with the dial details such as hands, hour indices and Longines Winged Hourglass logo being done in case colour matching colours. While the choice of which precious metal is down to personal preference, I do like the 18-carat rose gold due to it being a bit more subtle in appearance, yet still stands out due to the contrast against the grey alligator strap.

The timepieces come with a hefty price tag, with both models sitting around the $24k AUD price. With this price tag, these new Master Collection GMT models do fall into a very competitive price bracket. These watches, however, remain competitive as the cases are, as mentioned, made from 18-carat yellow gold and rose gold, come with a beautifully elegant dial, and now have a very useful GMT function.

Reference: L2.844.8.71.2 (18-Carat Rose Gold), L2.844.6.71.2 (18-Carat Yellow Gold).

Specification

• Case: 40mm
• Case Material: 18-carat yellow gold or 18-carat rose gold
• Dial: Frosted silver dial with gilt-style hands
• Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with several layers of anti-reflective coating on both sides
• Water resistance: 30m (3 Bar)
• Movement: Automatic Calibre L844
• Movement Frequency: 3.5Hz (25,200 VpH)
• Power reserve: 72 hours
• Bracelet: Grey-coloured alligator leather strap with buckle.

Australian Recommended Retail Price: AUD $24,625 (Both variants)

Availability: Both the L2.844.8.71.2 (18-carat Rose Gold) and L2.844.6.71.2 (18-carat Yellow Gold) are limited to 500 timepieces each. Available for purchase through selected Longines retail partners or online at Longines.com.au