Like its emblem of a winged hourglass, Longines’ watches circle the globe as timekeepers of man’s great achievements. Founded in the Swiss hamlet of Saint-Imier in 1832, Longines attained new heights with its innovative technology, timeless appeal, and undeniable elegance. Longines began their celebrations in March with the conception of The Musee Longines which showcased 50 years of watch making. This was followed by the launch of a spectacular opus entitled “A Region in Time” which provides an insightful trajectory of the social and economic development of watchmaking in the region.

Festivities to commemorate 175 successful years continued at the Cité du Temps in Geneva this September with the publication of “At the Heart of an Industrial Vocation - Longines watch movements (1832 – 2007) – Tradition, know-how, innovation”. The company celebrated its 175th birthday this year with two new collections: the Master Retrograde for gentlemen, and for the ladies, a limited line of 175 watches, each adorned with 175 diamonds. Presented at a press conference by Nick Hayek Jr., CEO of Swatch Group and Walter von Känel, President of Longines the Master Retrograde is a chronographer’s dream come true. It is an elegant and deceptively simple design that comes with an alligator strap or stainless steel bracelet that the modern man will snap up in seconds. The ladies’ 175 Diamonds is a delicate and alluring timepiece that shimmers like divine dewdrops. Reminiscent of vintage jewellry watches yet utterly contemporary with its mother-of-pearl face and white leather strap, it promises to delight women of all ages.

Longines has exceeded technological expectations time after time; present in the 1896 Olympics in Athens, the Longines name became a symbol of accuracy and horological advancements. Its invention of the “broken wire” timing technique in 1912 revolutionized modern sports. Longines’ timepieces recorded Charles Lindbergh’s 1927 flight across the Atlantic, were worn by Amelia Earhart, and are often counted upon for timing the Olympic Games and innumerable equestrian, gymnastic, and Formula One events. To highlight their long sporting heritage, Andre Agassi will soon serve as the company’s male “face”.

A brand known for its elegance and tradition, Longines is currently present in 130 countries. Their sophisticated timepieces grace the wrists of world class athletes and film stars alike. India’s own Aishwarya Rai embodies the watchmaker’s message “Elegance is an Attitude,” and serves as the company’s international ambassador. Looking to extend their products into more international markets, Longines is seeking its way to Indian consumers in upcoming years.