The first half of the 20th century was something of a heyday for Longines, with the era providing ample inspiration for some of the most covetable additions to its Heritage line. While recent releases have lent on the watchmaker’s considerable military and aviation connections, this time it has instead paid a visit to the late 1940s for a duo of dressier timepieces that channel the freedom and spirit of optimism synonymous with the period.

The Longines Heritage Classic – Tuxedo is available in two chic versions: a pared-back three-hander and a chronograph. The former stands out with its eye-catching monochromatic dial, comprising an opaline silver disc surround by a matte-black circle. In a quirky design detail, the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock is positioned slightly off-centre. It is equipped with the L893.5 movement complete with silicon balance spring, enhancing the precision of the timepiece.

This bold black-and-white look continues to the chronograph, which also introduces subtle blue highlights across the subdial hands and the tachymetric scale that runs around the edge of the dial. It is fitted with the calibre L895.5, developed exclusively for the Longines Heritage timepieces.

Staying true to the vintage timepieces from which they take their cues, Longines has chosen not to add the word ‘automatic’ to the dial, while both models come presented on a sleek semi-matte black leather strap in keeping with the aesthetic of the era.

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