Kylie Lloyd-Wyatt
Continuing a classic Longines shape, the Mini DolceVita shrinks its dimensions for a classier lookThree dial variations, including a stamped guilloche, are availableThe L178 quartz movement, based on the ETA 980.153, is tasked with timekeepingThe Longines DolceVita, its name translating to “sweet life”, is a well-loved staple of the Longines line-up, dating back to 1910. This year, the delectable classic has received a significant makeover, reworking the design to reference its heritage in a more modern and miniaturised package. Aptly named the Longines Mini DolceVita, the model sports two distinct dial configurations, the choice of some added bling, and a complex five-link bracelet that accompanies its hero piece.Owing to its elegant origins, the new Mini DolceVita was launched at a swanky evening in New York City’s Gotham Hall, celebrating the Italian sweet life that lent its name to the collection. This very same idea inspired the theme of the evening, attended by Longines ambassadors Academy Award winner Jennifer Lawrence and three-time Asia Artists Award winner Suzy.Though it's unmistakably DolceVita in design, the changes from the previous model are significant. The Mini's case measuring 21.5mm in width and 29mm lug-to-lug, as the name suggests, is more petite, and is flat rather than curved on top. Though the absence of the wrist-hugging curve might worry some, a lug-to-lug and thickness of only 6.75mm means it will sit neatly on the flat of the wrist without jutting out.The case itself is more boxy, and its clean lateral aspects frame the rectangular dial and flow seamlessly into the lugs and the inset component between the lugs completes the aesthetic.Longines have sort to satisfy the aesthetic sensibilities of the masses with three main dial types and a swathe of pastel. A circle and rectangle motifs adorn the first two silver dial versions, the latter further complemented by delightful guilloche that Longines calls flinque, even though no enamel seems to be present, while the small seconds sit at the 6 o'clock position so you know your battery is working. A particularly striking and elegant brick-style bracelet with butterfly clasp is available, promising supreme comfort for the wearer, along with black and red leather straps with pin buckle. Both the rectangular and round dial versions are also available in a diamond set case, as shown above.The third dial takes the rectangular motif on a playful, colourful odyssey, moving away from the bold and minimalist colour references of 2022 to a more whimsical pastel pink, blue, ivory, and a shade of minty green that's so hot right now. The inner dial is bordered in pastel, with gilded hour markers and framing architecture to match the hands. In comparison, the central part of the dial is silver and decorated with guilloche providing contrast and improving legibility. Just under half a carat of IF-VVS diamonds decorate the case, while the gilded alligator straps bring the colours of the dials and highlights together.Inside all references ticks the L178 quartz movement, a Longines variant of the 11-jewel ETA 980.153 quartz movement. Though many are sure to feel that an automatic movement would be a welcome addition, quartz is a reliable option, and battery changes are a breeze compared to servicing a mechanical movement.Longines Mini DolceVita collection pricing and availabilityThe Longines Mini Dolce Vita collection is available now from Longines. Price: A$2,625 (leather strap), A$3,075 (steel bracelet), A$5,975 (leather strap, diamonds), A$6,400 (steel bracelet, diamonds)BrandLonginesModelMini DolceVitaReference NumberL5.200.0.71.6, L5.200.0.75.6, L5.200.4.71.2, L5.200.4.71.5, L5.200.4.71.6, L5.200.4.75.2, L5.200.4.75.6, L5.200.0.05.2, L5.200.0.79.2, L5.200.0.95.2, L5.200.0.99.2Case Dimensions21.5mm (W) x 6.75mm (T) x 29mm (LTL)Case MaterialStainless steel, optional 38 Top Wesselton diamondsWater Resistance30 metresCrystal(s)Sapphire with dual-sided AR coatingDialSilver flinque, silver and white sunburst, or sandblasted silverMint, ivory, blue or pinkLug Width16mmStrap198-link steel bracelet, butterfly claspBlack, red, mint, ivory, blue, pink alligator leather with steel buckleMovementL178, ETA 980.153 base, quartz, 11 jewelsPower Reserve36 monthsFunctionsHours, minutes, small secondsAvailabilityNowPriceA$2,625 (leather strap)A$3,075 (steel bracelet)A$5,975 (leather strap, diamonds)A$6,400 (steel bracelet, diamonds)
04.10.23