Nick Kenyon
In 2019, one of the most celebrated watches by the enthusiast community was the Longines Heritage Classic sector dial. The heritage reissue trend was in full flight, with Longines being one of the brands that had ridden the wave the best, and the blend of authentic historical design cues with a relatively affordable price made for a very popular timepiece. Fast-forward to 2021 and Longines has added a twist to the successful recipe, by offering it with a black dial and also the option of a vintage-style bracelet.Inspired by the Longines dress watches of the 1930s, this new heritage reissue hits a lot of spots. The steel case is a wearable 38.5mm and if the thickness is the same as the silver dial from 2019, will measure a relatively slender 11mm. The lugs curve downward elegantly, while the caseback is closed, offering 30m of water resistance.The two new Longines Heritage Classic sector dial watches on the left, next to the 1930s inspiration on the right.Arriving at the beautifully balanced black dial and we have a blend of textures that really brings to life what would otherwise be a relatively simple canvas. The minute track features circular brushwork, while the centre looks to have a more matte texture, contrasting nicely against the snailed sub-seconds register at 6 o’clock.As you probably guessed from the name, the dial is divided up into different sectors, which serves the purpose of making it easier to read at a glance, as well as making it more visually interesting. It’s a classic design cue that has been used by many different brands over the decades, but Longines has reestablished it as a winning look.The Longines Heritage Classic sector dial is powered by a modern L893 automatic movement, containing a silicon balance spring to avoid the effects of magnetism. This is the same caliber as the 2019 reference, which offers 72 hours of power reserve when fully wound.The most exciting update for me is the inclusion of a new bracelet, as the 2019 reference was only available on leather straps. Executed in a seven-row “beads-of-rice” style, with straight end-links meeting the lugs, it is exactly what this watch was missing when it was first released. I recall reading a review of the watch on Bexsonn in early 2020, where they had shot the watch (the author’s own) on a third-party bracelet, and I remember thinking just how perfect and complete the watch looked.Image: bexsonn In this new reference, Longines has produced their own similar looking bracelet, which only makes the watch more attractive and versatile as a daily wear. I’m personally delighted to see that Longines has continued to develop this truly beautiful design, from one of the most golden periods of the wristwatch, and hope this isn’t the final chapter of the Longines Heritage Classic sector dial.Pricing: $3350 on bracelet and $3050 on leather strapMade in partnership with Longines. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial Policy.
08.06.21