For over 100 years, Longines has been working toward perfecting pilot watches. In 1908, the Swiss luxury brand came out with its first timepiece that had more than one time zone, and in subsequent years became a favorite of renowned aviators all over the world. Now, with its latest release, Longines has perfected the travel-companion watch for a new generation.
Guided by the spirit of aviation, Longines has added to its blockbuster Spirit collection of pilot watches with the new Spirit Zulu Time. Enthusiasts will be happy to hear that the Zulu Time is a “true” GMT, meaning that its hour hand can be set independently without disturbing the timekeeping or second time zone. In other words, it’s the perfect complication for the frequent traveler. Responsible for this handy feature is Longines’ new in-house L844.4 automatic movement, which also boasts COSC-certified chronometer status, a silicon balance spring, and a 72-hour power reserve. Adorned with a fairly sizable screw-in crown on the edge, the watch’s ergonomically-constructed stainless steel case has a diameter of 42mm and a thickness of just under 14mm.
Since the Spirit Zulu Time is a GMT, it comes equipped with a 24-click, bidirectional ceramic bezel for keeping track of different time zones. The numbers of the 24-hour scale are engraved into the bezel itself and then filled with lacquer. Longines’ new watch is available in three dial colors: sunray blue with a blue bezel, matte black with a black bezel, and sandblasted anthracite with a green bezel. The green bezel version also sports gilt hands and indices, giving it a touch of vintage charm. Each variant comes with either a three-link stainless steel bracelet or a leather strap (in brown or blue) option. A sapphire crystal, 100m water resistance, and Super-LumiNova on the hands and Arabic indices round out the tool watch’s key features.
Named after a dual-time Longines watch from nearly a century ago, “Zulu Time” is another term for Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) that’s frequently used in military settings. Naturally, we think it’s quite the fitting moniker for this dynamite pilot’s watch. The Spirit Zulu Time comes with a 5-year warranty from Longines and is available now on the company’s online store starting at $2,950.
