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It’s been a while since we last talked about Longines. This is rather good since the Swiss watch brand recently lifted the veil on its latest creation: the Pilot Majetek. With her, Longines offers us a dive into the history and the world of aviation, a field that she masters to perfection.
Longines: history and aviation in heritage
Since 1832, almost 200 years, Longines has been designing watches for pilots, which have since been worn by many pioneers in the sky, but also by many explorers, travelers and great athletes. All these years have enabled the brand with the winged hourglass to build a unique heritage, to offer models that are precise, efficient and elegant at the same time.
Today, Longines continues to draw on the aesthetic codes of its historical pieces, while adapting them to the 21st century, both from a stylistic and technical point of view.
New Longines Pilot Majetek
Drawing inspiration from models from the past and combining them with the present: this is the idea that gave rise to the new Longines Pilot Majetek. Originally, this wristwatch saw the light of day in 1935 and was intended for Czechoslovak pilots. The 2023 version strongly resembles its predecessor, but we also quickly notice the changes that have been made to it.
A more ergonomic and comfortable case
There Longines Pilot Majetek of the time was distinguished in particular by its 40 mm steel cushion case. It now measures 43 mm, and the crown is no longer alone and is surrounded by protections. This watch retains its cushion shape but in a slightly cambered and more rounded look here, right down to the lugs, thus offering superior ergonomics. As on the original model, the case is surmounted by a bidirectional fluted bezel. Unlike the old version, the small fluorescent triangle-marker, or “Starting time indicator”, is now independent of the bezel and the fixed glass (these all rotated in the same block before).
A perfected movement
On the back of the case water-resistant to 100 m, the screwed steel back is adorned with a commemorative plaque whose mention “1935” refers to the date of origin of the first Longines Majetek. Behind it lies a newly patented movement, the Longines L893.6 caliber equipped with a magnetism-resistant silicon hairspring. This exclusive mechanism has a power reserve of 72 hours and oscillates at 25,200 vph. Another important point: this Pilot Majetek is chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).
A modernized dial
Although the dial strongly evokes that of the base model, there are several changes. The black enamel background gives way to a more contemporary matte black. The Arabic numerals and indexes are here in relief. They are coated with a SuperLuminova Old radium treatment, like the hands which have abandoned their cathedral shape for a straight outline. On the other hand, the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock has not moved. A wise choice since it is one of the recognizable elements of the Pilot Majetek.
Three models in one
Regarding the strap, the brand offers several alternatives: a brown or green leather strap topstitched with two beige-colored stop points, or a NATO-type strap in polyester fibers, made from recycled materials. This allows you to choose between three different rooms, each with its own character.
In conclusion, the news Longines Pilot Majetek retains its image as a robust, reliable and precise watch, cut out for adventure but also easy to wear in everyday life thanks to its elegant and sober design, enhanced with a beautiful vintage touch.
Price: €3,950
