BY DHANANJAY PATHAK
Longines has been on top of the Heritage re-issue game for quite some tie now. That said, the brand is equally capable of producing tastefully executed modern watches as well, and the Longines Spirit collection released last year is a testament to this. The latest addition to the Spirit collection comes in the form of the new Spirit Titanium, a three-hand no-date watch that offers the perfect blend of retro and modern aesthetics.
Based on the existing Spirit watches, the new Spirit Titanium looks familiar, albeit, comes with a few noteworthy updates that make a big impact. To begin with, the matt black dial is still characterized by bold applied lume filled Arabic numerals. However, the numerals, the hands, the branding, and the five stars above 6, have, in this instance been presented in a golden tone to exude a retro vibe. But the real deal here is the applied numeral at 3, which makes the dial look more symmetrical and balanced, compared to the existing models that feature a date window instead. A white printed minute track runs on the outer periphery and simple sword style hour and minute hands, along with a red-tipped seconds hand make it a breeze to read the time. And just like the other watches from the Spirit collection, the dial features a metallic ring and trapezoidal cutouts at intervals of five, giving the watch a distinctive look.
Like the dial, the case maintains the design and dimensions of its elder Spirit siblings but features one significant difference. Like before, there are two case sizes on offer; 40 and 42mm, but this time around, the case has been crafted from lightweight Grade 5 Titanium alloy that comprises Titanium, Aluminum, and Vanadium. This new alloy appears to have a slightly darker hue when compared to stainless steel, and it would also help the watch lose some of its heft, enhancing wrist comfort. At the 3 O’clock position is an oversized crown that threads down to ensure that the watch is water-resistant to a healthy 100 meters.
Beating inside the Longines Spirit Titanium is the calibre L888.4, which is based on the ETA A31.L11. This movement operates at a frequency of 3.5 Hz, provides a healthy autonomy of around 72 hours, and comes equipped with a Silicon balance spring that provides enhanced magnetic protection. The movement is hidden underneath a closed case-back that has been etched with some watch specifications and the Longines winged hourglass logo.
The new Longines Spirit Titanium comes with a five-year warranty and is available to purchase on a black strap from $2650.
L3.810.1.53.2 40mm strap $2650, L3.810.1.53.6 40mm bracelet $2950, L3.811.1.53.2 42mm strap $2750, L3.811.1.53.6 42mm bracelet $3050
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