Swiss watchmaker Longines has expanded its Spirit Pilot collection with two new timepieces, the Longines Spirit Pilot Blue and the Longines Spirit Pilot Flyback Blue. These additions aim to refresh the brand's popular line, which draws inspiration from aviation. The new models maintain the collection's classic identity while offering a modern twist. According to Longines, the goal is to provide an alternative that appeals to both collectors and enthusiasts seeking a versatile timepiece.
The Longines Spirit Pilot Blue features a 39mm stainless steel case with a thickness of 11.5mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 47.2mm. The watch boasts a 100-meter water resistance and a screw-down crown. Its 20mm lug width allows for easy strap changes. The Spirit Pilot Flyback Blue, a chronograph version, has a slightly larger case diameter of 39.5mm and a thickness of 13.4mm due to the flyback chronograph mechanism. Both models come with either a blue textured rubber strap or a stainless steel bracelet with a micro-adjustment clasp.
The new Spirit Pilot models showcase a blue dial that modernizes the collection's aesthetic. Longines has opted for a matte blue finish, maintaining a minimalist approach reminiscent of historical pilot watches. The Spirit Pilot Blue features applied hour markers and a clean design without a date display or counters. In contrast, the Spirit Pilot Flyback Blue includes two counters: a small seconds display at 9 o'clock and a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock. The chronograph version also features a blue ceramic bezel with a countdown scale.
The Longines Spirit Pilot Blue is powered by the L888.4 caliber, an automatic movement based on ETA architecture, certified by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC). This movement offers a 72-hour power reserve. The Spirit Pilot Flyback Blue is equipped with the L792.4 caliber, a manual winding movement also COSC-certified, providing a 68-hour power reserve and a flyback chronograph function. Both movements are designed to deliver precision and mechanical excellence.
The flyback chronograph function in the Spirit Pilot Flyback Blue allows for instant reset and restart of the chronograph, eliminating the need for separate stop, reset, and restart actions. This feature is particularly useful in aviation, where quick and accurate time measurements are crucial. The movement's column wheel and chronograph mechanism are visible through a transparent case back.
The new Longines Spirit Pilot Blue and Spirit Pilot Flyback Blue timepieces are available now at Longines retailers and authorized distributors. Prices start at $2,700 for the Spirit Pilot Blue with a rubber strap and $3,100 with a steel bracelet. The Spirit Pilot Flyback Blue is priced at $5,250 with a rubber strap and $5,550 with a steel bracelet.
With these additions, Longines aims to cater to enthusiasts of aviation-inspired watches seeking a contemporary design and certified mechanical precision. The Spirit Pilot collection continues to evolve, offering a range of options for those who appreciate the blend of style, functionality, and horological expertise.
Key points
- Longines introduces two new blue dial timepieces to its Spirit Pilot collection.
- The new models feature a blend of aviation-inspired design and mechanical precision.
- Prices for the new timepieces range from $2,700 to $5,550, depending on the model and strap material.
