If you’re anything like us, you know your GMT history, be it the Rolex GMT-Master’s popularity with mid-century Pan Am pilots or the Omega Flightmaster for Soviet space missions. But Longines has been quietly building dual-time pieces since 1925, decades before GMT became a mainstream complication. Based on the Spirit Zulu Time that was launched in 2022, their new Spirit Zulu Time 1925 finally gives that pioneering heritage the two-tone spotlight it deserves, wrapping a century of aviation timekeeping expertise into what might be the most compelling mid-range GMT on the market right now.
A Lineage Worth Celebrating
Back in 1925, Longines created the world’s first dual-time zone wristwatch, complete with a nautical “Z” flag on the dial representing “Zulu time” (military speak for GMT). Since aviation was exploding on a global level, pilots and navigators needed this functionality. The original featured a distinctive rectangular case that looked decades ahead of its time, but Longines wisely chose their vintage Spirit models as the foundation for what would become the Spirit Zulu Time.
In just a few years, this collection has quickly become one of the more compelling GMT options around. The flyer-style movement allows independent hour hand adjustment, which is crucial for frequent travelers, and the overall execution looks less like a tool watch and more like something you could wear to the office or on a business trip.
Gold Refinement
Housed in a 39mm stainless steel case, the 1925 edition’s standout feature is obviously the 18K pink gold-capped bezel insert, which replaces the usual ceramic insert and is a first for the collection. The choice of pink gold carries symbolic weight too, with Longines claiming it references the copper strip marking the Prime Meridian at the Greenwich Observator. It’s placed around a matte black dial, creating a visual contrast that almost ditches any utilitarian purpose this watch could have in favor of something truly luxurious.
The bezel features engraved numerals rather than printed ones, adding another dynamic layer to the aesthetic. Longines extended the gold treatment throughout the dial elements as well, including the hands, applied numerals, and text.
Exhibition Back Debut
For the first time in the Spirit Zulu Time line, this anniversary model features a sapphire caseback revealing the same L844.4 movement. This time around, the rotor gets special treatment with gold PVD coating and an engraved planisphere showing the aforementioned Prime Meridian. Still a perfect travel watch caliber, the movement itself remains unchanged with COSC certification, the impressive 72-hour power reserve, and the silicon balance spring for magnetic resistance.
Lastly, the watch comes on a stainless steel bracelet, which continues to emphasize the two-tone visual here. However, you can swap this out with the included black NATO strap (or something else entirely) if you so choose, thanks to Longines’ interchangeable strap system.
Spec Sheet
Model: Spirit Zulu Time 1925
Case Size: 39mm
Lug-to-Lug: 46.8mm
Case Thickness: 13.5mm
Case Material: Stainless steel with 18k pink gold bezel cap
Movement: Longines L844.4 automatic flyer-style GMT
Power Reserve: 72 hours
Water Resistance: 100m
Strap: Steel bracelet and black NATO strap
Limited Edition: No
Pricing & Availability
About a grand more than the standard versions, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time 1925 is available now through the brand’s website for $4,350. Fortunately, unlike most anniversary pieces, this isn’t a limited edition.
Recap
Longines Spirit Zulu Time 1925
Celebrating 100 years of aviation history, Longines made a two-tone version of its fan-favorite Spirit Zulu Time GMT.
