By Jovan Krstevski
The United States celebrates its 242nd year of independence and Longines has just the right watch for the occasion. The brand has expanded its HydroConquest collection with the new USA Exclusive HydroConquest models.
Of course, the design elements of these models pay tribute to the United States where much significant Longines history has been experienced. The USA Exclusive HydroConquest watches takes bold inspirations from the world of aquatic sports featuring a high polish and ultra-scratch-resistant ceramic insert on the bezel. This is then brilliantly contrasted with a unique matte texture applied between 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock. The matte texture also yields perfect readability in all lighting conditions.
Moving forward, the dial is enhanced by red indices that bring shallow highlight to the overall watch design. It does not take your eyes away from the center and for that I like it. The initials USA at the bottom right corner of the dial is very obvious, you will not miss it at all. There is also a luminous numeral 50 in the upper left corner of the bezel that refers to the 50 States. The design is patriotic in nature and more often than not, the wearer will always be reminded of what the watch is designed for.
Moreover, the colorful ceramic bezel accent is carried throughout the matching dial combining the contemporary design and sporty silhouette of the 1000 piece exclusive collection. The hands and the hour markers are nicely adorned with Super-LumiNova® that stand out in contrast to the dark look of the new grey, black, and blue sunray dials, I like it. Meanwhile, the case back features an engraved American flag motif continuing the lively theme that defines the USA Exclusive HydroConquest collection.
The watch is available in stainless steel, black PVD or grey PVD. The water-resistance is down to 300 meters which is at the level of pro divers already. For this very reason, the watch features a unidirectional rotating bezel and a screw-down crown and case back that all work together in harmony to protect the self-winding mechanical movement inside. The double security folding clasp with integrated diving extension is a very thoughtful gesture from the brand. A pro diver can really take this watch to where it is intended to be used.
Finally, the USA Exclusive HydroConquest edition also comes with a rubber NATO strap with matching colors to the dial. There are also stainless steel, black PVD or grey PVD bracelets to choose from. The available models come in 41 mm with three hands and a calendar for the new USA Exclusive HydroConquest Collection. The watch truly salutes the fifty states in its own unique style and if patriotism is in the wearer’s blood, they would really enjoy the watch.
At USD 2,100 a piece, I can say that it is priced reasonably well. What I love about the watch is its impressive Longines L888.2 automatic and manual movement featuring 64 hours of power reserve. Visit Longines here.
