The moonphase complication in watchmaking holds an enchanting allure, even though its practical use may be limited to sailors and werewolves. Nevertheless, there’s something universally captivating about capturing a slice of the majestic night sky on your wrist. The latest release from Longines, the Flagship Heritage Moonphase, exemplifies timeless elegance and charm, drawing inspiration from a classic reference dating back to 1957. Longines has a history of reviving vintage designs with a modern touch, and this timepiece showcases one of their finest and most harmonious efforts.
Crafted from stainless steel, the 38.5mm-wide and 12.4mm-thick case of the Flagship Heritage Moonphase strikes a perfect balance in size. While it may not conform to the current trend of smaller cases, its deft proportions and simple shape make it truly handsome and wearable. Notably, the lugs play a vital role in the watch’s success, as they are shorter, eliminating any on-wrist overhang and visually compacting the case. The polished finishing on the lugs adds a touch of refinement, while the smooth, brushed case sides and narrow bezel contribute to its overall polished brightness. The exquisite solid caseback design featuring a gold and enamel depiction of a man-o’-war ship under full sail adds a nostalgic touch, but despite the maritime theme, the watch offers only 30 meters of water resistance.
The dial of the Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase embodies a refined midcentury dress watch appearance. The midnight blue sunburst dial with a soft, satin-like sheen, along with the tapering dauphine handset and wedge-like indices, enhances legibility and unifies the dial’s look. Concentric circles formed by the minimalist printed minutes scale provide a visual boundary, making the dial feel more intimate. The subdial at 6 o’clock stands out as a focal point, beautifully balanced and exhibiting intricate details. The moonphase disk’s bright polishing for the moon and stars ties it seamlessly with the surrounding dial elements, completing a beautifully designed dial.
Inside the timepiece resides the L899.5 automatic moonphase movement, exclusively manufactured by ETA for Longines. It incorporates modern features like a silicon balance spring and a 25,200 bph beat rate, offering magnetic resistance and a generous 72-hour power reserve. To complement the classical appearance, the Flagship Heritage Moonphase comes with a midnight blue alligator leather strap, enhancing the watch’s premium feel and providing a soft and supple wearing experience.
In conclusion, the Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase captures the emotional essence of a classic moonphase design from the ’50s while incorporating impressive modern finishing and performance. This watch, with its timeless appeal, is available through authorized dealers at an MSRP of $3,050 USD. For those who appreciate the romance of the night sky on their wrist, this timepiece is a compelling choice. For more information, visit the brand’s website.