With new colours, a wrap-around strap, and Kate Winslet at the helm, Longines releases a new interpretation of their classic line.
Classics are classics for a reason. And with the DolceVita line from Longines which was launched all the way back in 1927 there’s a reason while this collection still stands the test of time. With this heritage, Longines launched the Mini DolceVita line last year and has this year given it an entire refresh with new colorways and some very fresh wrap-around straps colour matched the dials. Adding to the campaign, actress and brand ambassador Kate Winslet adds a further touch of class to the new release.
With six models in the new collection, all with their classic square shape and a range of vibrant colorways the new models feature four steel case versions and two steel case models set with 38 diamonds to give these models an enhanced touch of elegance. In addition, Longines has given the range 2 different dial choices in the square-shaped case. The first is their classic with three versions sporting a silvered rectangular Roman dial distinguished by its flinqué decoration. In addition, the other three variants are available with a circular silvered sand-blasted Cosmo dial, giving these three pieces a more distinctive look with the contrasting circular dial and square case.
If we focus on the square dials first up, these pieces have been given painted Roman numerals in a deep blue, which match the blued steel hour and minute hands. At 6 o’clock, the dials feature a small seconds dial with a blued hand and gives the dial a somewhat asymmetrical design, which to a degree is balanced by the 12 hour marker at the top in big Roman numerals. As mentioned, the dial has been given a “flinqué” design which in everyday terms is a beautiful segmented radial pattern. In person, when you see these the silvered dial combined with the flinqué decoration adds a lot of depth to the dials, which is saying something in dials that are on the petite side.
This dial variant comes in the polished steel case with a black wrap-around leather strap or for those looking for a little more luxury, two cases with 38 brilliant cut Top Wesselton IF-VVS diamonds totalling 0.456 carats which come on a bright pink or tan leather strap.
Moving to the Oval dials, these have been given a more minimalistic design, still with a small seconds hand at 6 and blued steel hands, but with a less cluttered design. The Cosmo dial in sandblasted silver showcases the Roman numerals at 12, 3, and 9 o’clock positions in a more contemporary design. These are available on the red, orange, or green Nappa leather straps.
Each of these pieces are powered by Longines’ high-precision L178 quartz movement and is water-resistant to 30 meters. Each case is a small and elegant 21.5mm diameter, with a lug-to-lug of x 29mm and a thickness of 6.75mm.
To assist in bringing this collection to life, Longines has enlisted the help of brand Ambassador, Kate Winslet to showcase these pieces. All imagery has been set against a beautiful coastal backdrop, and the cinematic campaign highlights the actress’s very own concept of time. Time… to just, be. I think there’s something in that sentiment for all of us at times!
Initial Thoughts
We had the chance to preview these pieces last month, and in hand, they are nice, elegant pieces combined with coloured straps to add a touch of sportiness and fun to the pieces. For those who want a more subdued look, the tan and black straps conform to classic styles, whereas the red, pink, orange, and green give them a more contemporary feel.
With a price point under A$3,000 for the non-diamond and just under A$6,000 for the diamond variants, these represent good value for money as both fun, elegant, and classic pieces. The ability to swap out the straps as well with the quick change system to another colour or a simple leather strap just adds to the versatility of these.
References:
- L5.200.0.71.0 / 3 – Tan,
- L5.200.0.71.2 / 4 – Pink
- L5.200.4.75.0 / 3 – Red
- L5.200.4.75.4 / 8 – Orange
- L5.200.4.71.0 / 4 – Black
- L5.200.4.75.5 / 9 – Green
Specification:
- Case: 21.50mm x 29.00mm
- Thickness: 6.75 mm
- Case Material: Polished Stainless Steel / stainless steel set with 38 diamonds
- Case back: Closed case back
- Dial: Silvered Fliqué square dial or sand blasted Cosmo oval dial design both with small seconds at 6 o’clock
- Crystal: Sapphire glass with multi-layer anti-reflective treatment on both sides
- Water resistance: 30m / 3bar
- Movement: Longines Quartz L178
- Strap: Nappa leather wrap-around straps in pink or tan (diamond square dial), black (square dial) or green, orange and red (Oval dials)
