BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
As the Chinese New Year slithers into our calendars, snake-inspired watches are emerging from the shadows that capture the spirit of this intriguing reptile. Among them is the latest release from Longines, the Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake, a vibrant homage to the sixth animal of the Chinese zodiac. We covered their Year of the Dragon edition last year here, this year the Longines Conquest Heritage gets a striking makeover, embodying the wisdom and rebirth associated with the serpent.
The Conquest Heritage Year of the Snake sheds its traditional silver or black dial for a striking red gradient. The nods to the snake theme are subtle here rather than garishly obvious. The gradient red dial transitions from bright crimson at its center to deep black at the edges. Gilt dauphine hands, faceted indices and the winged hourglass logo bestow patrician grace to the timepiece, while the red-and-gold palette evokes auspicious energy tied to wealth and prosperity.
The watch is encased in a stainless steel body measuring 40mm x 10.7mm and polished to a subtle sheen. The watch retains its vintage charm, much like a snake shedding its old skin to reveal a renewed form, further accentuated by a glass-box sapphire crystal that harks back to a bygone era.
Flipping the watch over allows your gaze to meet an engraved caseback featuring a coiled snake clutching a Lingzhi mushroom, a symbol of longevity and renewal in Chinese culture, designed by artist Wu Jian’an.
Inside, the Calibre L888.5 automatic movement beats at 25,200vph with a robust 72-hour power reserve. Enhanced by a silicon balance spring, it offers excellent magnetic resistance.
Paired with a sleek black alligator leather strap and a classic pin buckle, this limited edition of 2,025 pieces is priced at USD 3,150. Now available at Longines boutiques and retailers.
