Longines - The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph
Having launched a watch fitted with an exclusive, self-winding chronograph movement with a column wheel which controls the chronograph functions in 2009, Longines has now identified new uses for this exceptional, user-friendly calibre. Longines mandated and paid ETA to develop this brand-new exclusive movement. Under the name of The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph, these latest models represent an updated version of the timing equipment that Longines has developed over the years.
Longines mandated and paid ETA to develop a brand-new exclusive self-winding movement with a column wheel for a wrist chronograph. The reference number given to the new calibre was L688.2. As part of the continual programme of reviving the mechanical watch that was started at the beginning of the 21st century, this new creation meets the requirements of changing demand with regard to watches as well as the growing popularity of mechanical chronographs and the fascination for traditional horological devices. Column-wheel chronographs correspond to the new taste in watches. As part of the line of timing instruments created by Longines, this calibre constitutes the present-day embodiment of the far-reaching experience in mechanical time-keeping that is the heritage of the famous Swiss watchmaker.
Longines started producing timing equipment in 1878 with a simple 20 line chronograph (reference no. 20H) that had a column wheel that controlled the chronograph functions. Almost all the timing devices designed by Longines following this foray into the world of time-keeping used the same basic concept. Thus the calibres for pocket chronographs designed by Longines, such as the 19CH (1889), the 19.73 (1897), the 19.73N (1909) and the 19.73N fly-back (1922), the 18.72 (1929) or the 24 line calibre designed specifically for sports timing (1939), as well as the brand's movements for wrist chronographs such as the 13.33Z (1913), the famous 13ZN (1946) or the 30CH (1947) all used column-wheel systems to control and activate the chronograph functions, which varied from one calibre to another.
All this timing equipment forms the basis for Longines' historical involvement in timing and the world of sport. At Longines, the mechanical column-wheel chronograph is therefore a traditional and authentic, technical device. The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph models perpetuate this watchmaking heritage into the 21st century using cutting-edge technology.
Fitted with 27 jewels, the L688.2 movement is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm. The purpose of its column wheel is to control the chronograph functions (start, stop, return to zero). This system, and in particular the column wheel that was designed by ETA's engineers, is exceptionally user-friendly for a mechanical chronograph, requiring only the finest touch to start and stop the mechanism and to reset the hands at zero. The blued steel column wheel is surrounded by the fascinating beauty of a movement which is in fact an updated version of a traditional technical system. In addition to its refined design, the L688.2 calibre reveals a construction designed to meet the demands of timing. Longines has so far created several timepieces as a tribute to this high-tech movement. The combination of these timing features and the re-issue of an elegant, traditional or sporty design results in several The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph models that are contemporary watches steeped in the great tradition of mechanical timing.
For the first model of The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph, Longines has used traditional, elegant lines that are reminiscent of the timepieces that formed the basis of the brand's success during the 20th century. This model has a stainless steel or rose gold case with a diameter of 39 mm that houses the L688.2 calibre; the movement can be admired through the transparent sapphire back cover. With its dauphine-style, rose hands mounted on a silvered dial featuring 8 hour symbols, The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph also shows the date and has a small seconds at 9 o'clock, a dragging 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and a dragging 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This high-tech wrist chronograph is fitted on a dark brown alligator strap.
In the case of the second The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph model, priority has been given to sleek, classical beauty. The L688.2 calibre is housed in a stainless steel or rose gold case with a diameter of 39 mm and its dauphine-style, rhodium-plated hands are set on a silvered dial featuring 13 hour symbols. With a date, a small seconds at 9 o'clock, a dragging 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and a dragging 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock, this watch modestly contains a movement that can be admired through the transparent sapphire back cover. It is mounted on a dark brown alligator strap.In the case of the second The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph model, priority has been given to sleek, classical beauty. The L688.2 calibre is housed in a stainless steel or rose gold case with a diameter of 39 mm and its dauphine-style, rhodium-plated hands are set on a silvered dial featuring 13 hour symbols. With a date, a small seconds at 9 o'clock, a dragging 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and a dragging 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock, this watch modestly contains a movement that can be admired through the transparent sapphire back cover. It is mounted on a dark brown alligator strap.
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph
Finally, the design of the third model focuses on the particular performance of the L688.2. Named The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph, this robust, sporty timepiece houses the chronograph calibre in a 41 mm diameter, stainless steel case with a screw-in, transparent back cover. This model - designed specifically for performance - has a steel or black or grey ceramic bezel that surrounds a silvered, black lacquered or brushed grey sunburst dial. It is available on a choice of bracelets: stainless steel or stainless steel with central links in black or grey ceramic, or on a rubber strap. With a date, a small seconds at 9 o'clock, a dragging 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and a dragging 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock, The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph is a marriage of the beauty of performance and the marvels of cutting-edge technology.
Based in St. Imier in Switzerland since 1832, the watchmaker Longines can look back on more than 175 years of non-stop craftsmanship, as well as a solid heritage as timekeeper for world championships in various sports and collaborator with different international sports federations. Known for the elegance of its timepieces, Longines is a member of the Swatch Group Ltd, the World's leading manufacturer of horological products. With the winged hourglass as its emblem, the brand has outlets in over 130 countries.
L688.2
With its 27 jewels, the L688.2 movement is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism (start, stop, return to zero). This blued steel wheel is part of a work of art that is a stylish update of a traditional technique.
The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph L2.733.4.72.2_PR1
In the case of the Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph, priority has been given to classical and refined beauty. With its 27 jewels, the L688.2 movement is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent case back. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. This model has a stainless steel case that surrounds a silvered dial with 13 hour symbols. It displays the hours and minutes with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, as well as the date plus of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. The watch is fitted on a genuine dark brown alligator strap. Water-resistant to 30 m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph L2.733.4.72.2
In the case of the Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph, priority has been given to classical and refined beauty. With its 27 jewels, the L688.2 movement is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent case back. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. This model has a stainless steel case that surrounds a silvered dial with 13 hour symbols. It displays the hours and minutes with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, as well as the date plus of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. The watch is fitted on a genuine dark brown alligator strap. Water-resistant to 30 m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph L2.742.4.76.2
The design of the Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph has been centred around traditional, elegant lines that evoke the timepieces that contributed to the brand's success throughout the 20th century. With its 27 jewels, the L688.2 movement is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent back cover. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. This model has a stainless steel case that surrounds a silvered dial featuring a rose "12" in Arabic numerals and 8 rose applied hour symbols. It shows the hours and minutes, with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, the date and of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This model is fitted on a genuine dark brown alligator strap. Water-resistant to 30 m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph L2.742.8.76.2_PR2
The design of the Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph has been centred around traditional, elegant lines that evoke the timepieces that contributed to the brand's success throughout the 20th century. With its 27 jewels, the L688.2 movement is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent case back. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. This model has an 18 carat rose gold case that surrounds a silvered dial featuring a rose "12" in Arabic numerals and 8 rose applied hour symbols. It shows the hours and minutes, with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, the date and of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This model is fitted on a genuine dark brown alligator strap. Water-resistant to 30 m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph L2.733.8.72.2
In the case of the Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph, priority has been given to classical and refined beauty. The 18 carat rose gold case houses an L688.2 calibre, a self-winding movement with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm, that can be admired through the transparent case back. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. This model has an 18 carat rose gold case that surrounds a silvered dial features 13 hour symbols. It displays the hours and minutes, with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, the date and of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This model is fitted on a genuine dark brown alligator strap. Water-resistant to 30 m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph L2.742.8.76.2
The design of the Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph has been centred around traditional, elegant lines that evoke the timepieces that contributed to the brand's success throughout the 20th century. With its 27 jewels, the L688.2 movement is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent case back. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. This model has an 18 carat rose gold case that surrounds a silvered dial featuring a rose "12" in Arabic numerals and 8 rose applied hour symbols. It shows the hours and minutes, with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, the date and of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This model is fitted on a genuine dark brown alligator strap. Water-resistant to 30 m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph L2.744.4.56.7_PR3
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph is fitted with an L688.2 movement that beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 54 hours. The L688.2 movement (ETA A08.231), with 27 jewels, is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent back cover. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. The black dial, which features a "12" in Arabic numerals, shows the hours and minutes, with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, the date and of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This model has a stainless steel case with a screw-in back cover, and a bezel and crown decoration in scratch-resistant black ceramic plus lateral protection for the crown. It is fitted on a stainless steel bracelet with black ceramic links and a triple folding safety clasp. Water-resistant to 100 m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph L2.744.4.56.7
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph is fitted with an L688.2 movement that beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 54 hours. The L688.2 movement (ETA A08.231), with 27 jewels, is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent back cover. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. The black dial, which features a "12" in Arabic numerals, shows the hours and minutes, with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, the date and of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This model has a stainless steel case with a screw-in back cover, and a bezel and crown decoration in scratch-resistant black ceramic plus lateral protection for the crown. It is fitted on a stainless steel bracelet with black ceramic links and a triple folding safety clasp. Water-resistant to 100 m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph L2.743.4.76.6
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph is fitted with an L688.2 movement that beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 54 hours. The L688.2 movement (ETA A08.231), with 27 jewels, is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent back cover. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. The silvered dial, which features a "12" in Arabic numerals, shows the hours and minutes, with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, the date and of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This model has a bezel and case in stainless steel with a screw-in back cover plus lateral protection for the crown. It is fitted on a stainless steel bracelet with a triple folding safety clasp. Water-resistant to 100 m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph L2.744.4.06.7
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph is fitted with an L688.2 movement that beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 54 hours. The L688.2 movement (ETA A08.231), with 27 jewels, is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent back cover. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. The grey dial, which features a "12" in Arabic numerals, shows the hours and minutes, with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, the date and of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This model has a stainless steel case with a screw-in back cover and a bezel and crown decoration in scratch-resistant grey ceramic plus lateral protection for the crown. It is fitted on a stainless steel bracelet with grey ceramic links and a triple folding safety clasp. Water-resistant to 100m.
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph L2.744.4.56.2
The Longines Column-Wheel Sports Chronograph is fitted with an L688.2 movement that beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 54 hours. The L688.2 movement (ETA A08.231), with 27 jewels, is a self-winding calibre with a diameter of 30 mm and a height of 7.90 mm that can be admired through the transparent back cover. The column wheel that forms part of the movement serves to steer the functions of the chronograph mechanism. The black dial, which features a "12" in Arabic numerals, shows the hours and minutes, with a small seconds at 9 o'clock, the date and of course the chronograph functions: central seconds sweep, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock. This model has a stainless steel case with a screw-in back cover, and a bezel and crown decoration in scratch-resistant black ceramic plus lateral protection for the crown. Black rubber strap. Water-resistant to 100 m.
Reference number
L2.733.4.72.x steel model
L2.733.8.72.x 18 carat rose gold model
Calibre
Mechanical self-winding movement with a column-wheel chronograph mechanism
Calibre L688.2 (ETA A08.231)
13¼ lines, 27 jewels, 28,800 vibrations per hour
Power reserve: 54 hours
Functions
Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Chronograph
Central seconds sweep
Dragging 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock
Dragging 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock
Case
Circular, stainless steel or 18 carat rose gold, Ø 39 mm
Transparent sapphire case back
Dial
Silvered, 13 applied, rhodium-plated hour symbols coated with Super-LumiNova®
Silvered, 13 applied rose hour symbols coatedwith Super-LumiNova®
Small seconds at 9 o'clock
Date aperture at 4.30 o'clock
30-minute counter at 3 o'clock
12-hour counter at 6 o'clock
Hands
Dauphine design, rhodium-plated and coated with Super-LumiNova®
Dauphine design, rose, coated with Super-LumiNova®
Water-resistant To 3 bar (30m / ~100 feet)
Glass
Sapphire, anti-reflective
Strap
Genuine dark brown alligator with buckle
[Rating: 5 / 5 stars]
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