To mark the 70th anniversary of the Conquest collection, Longines is presenting the Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve. The watch is based on a historic model from 1959, the ref. 9028, which integrated a power reserve indicator in the centre of the dial by means of two rotating discs. The reincarnation that just launched offers this unique interpretation of the complication. The Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve comes in three colours: champagne, black and anthracite, each on an alligator leather strap.
The stainless steel case of the Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve measures 38 mm in diameter and features satin-finished sides and a polished bezel. The newly designed lugs, which are also polished, are optimised for ergonomics and wearing comfort. Meanwhile, a box sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides protects the front. On the other side reveals the see-through case back the mechanics. The water resistance is 50 metres.
There is a choice of three colours: champagne, anthracite or black. The dial is slightly domed and has yellow or rose gold-plated or silver-plated indices, depending on the version. The main hands are also either gold-plated or silver-plated and appear in a “skyscraper” shape. They are luminous and are therefore legible also in the dark. In addition to a minimalist minute track, there is also a ring-shaped depression that encircles the dial. At 12 o’clock there is an applied, trapezoidal date window that follows the curvature of the dial.
In the centre lies the power reserve indicator, which consists of two moving discs. When the watch runs down, the inner disc moves so that the broad tip of the printed hand points to the remaining power reserve. When new energy is fed, the outer disc moves instead until the hand points to the new power reserve. This creates a special dynamic that also constantly changes the aesthetics of the watch.
Inside the Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve is the L896.5 calibre, which sister company ETA produces exclusively for Longines. The movement operates at a frequency of 25,200 vibrations per hour (3.5 Hz) and integrates an anti-magnetic silicon balance spring. The power reserve is 72 hours, with new energy coming in by hand or by means of the automatic winding mechanism. The movement, finished with stripes and perlage, is visible through the exhibition back.
The watch comes in three versions, each with a leather strap. The champagne-coloured and black models come on a black alligator leather strap. The anthracite-coloured version, on the other hand, comes with a grey alligator strap. However, all have a stainless steel pin buckle. The price is 4,250 euros.
