Longines is a brand with a staggering amount of history and tradition. Once one of the largest watch manufacturers in the world, Longines has spent the past few years leaning on its past military roots.
New for 2020, Longines brings back, and modernises it’s mid-20th century war time reference 5774. Once a timepiece that served proudly amongst the French naval forces, the brand breathes new life into the 5774 with the all new Longines Heritage Military Marine Nationale.
The watch is unmistakably inspired by 1940’s war time timepieces, Longines outfits its newest offering with a 38.5mm stainless steel case. The case has a bubbled doming effect, thanks in large part to the choice of sapphire crystal and smooth bezel employed here.
Long protruding lugs feature drill holes for easy strap switching should the need arise, although with 19mm lug widths the need may arise a little less than you hope. The watch from with the new Heritage Military Marine Nationale is based, the 5774, was used by naval forces in a time before dive watches, and as such would be used for their water duties. The new Heritage Military Marine Nationale features only 30m of water resistance, so it would seem the watch is a reimagining which strays a little far from its inspiration.
Behind a solid steel case back, we find a dateless variation of the Longines calibre L888 automatic movement. A solid everyday work horse, the calibre L888 comfortably provides 64 hours of power reserve.
The vintage inspiration is present most readily dial side of the new watch, a creamy date-less dial, complete with blued steel hands and large printed numerals, the watch is restrained and utilitarian in its aesthetic. The words “Fab Suisse” feature just below the brand name, a call back to the original reference.
The all new Heritage Military Marine Nationale is another step in Longine’s march of heritage reissues as of late. The move towards reissues has been a successful one for the brand and we expect to see many more in the years to come.
Available for $2,950.00 AUD, the Longines Heritage Military Marine Nationale can be purchased at your local authorised dealer.
