There is something particularly heart racing about the new Longines Chronograph – in more ways than one. At a time when many watch brands are advancing onto the more complex realms of technology, I must admit it is nice to see that some are stripping things back to basics to connect with their past, in particular the 1920’s. Longines watches incorporate a strong devotion to tradition and high performance within very strand of their DNA and the latest addition is no exception. The brand founded in 1832 brought an interesting talking point to their stand at the Baselworld fair 2015..
The Longines Pulsometer Chronograph was not only developed with Doctors and members of the medical profession in mind, but the design of the timepiece itself adopts the look of a piece of clinical apparatus. The clean white lacquered dial accentuates 9 Arabic numerals painted in black and “Breguet”-type blue steel hands. The running seconds and elapsed minute dials are enclosed by a fine-looking minute chapter ring, but the use of the striking red hue to indicate the pulsometer scale really makes the watch what it is. But how does it work? Well, the watch is graduated for 30 pulses meaning that the chronograph is started, the pulse is then read for 30 beats, followed by stopping the chronograph at this point to get an accurate reading. The pulse reading is indicated by the second hands on the scale. The design of the Longines Pulsometer Chronograph is a re-invention of their earlier models, also used for the medical profession who back then, encountered problems achieving levels of accuracy. Origina
lly a patient’s pulse was recorded over 60 seconds which allowed for imprecise results and anomalies, thus the call for a remedy. The new Chronograph has not only a practical advantage but reminiscent of its heritage, also bursts with vintage beauty. The convex case is suggestive of the old style pocket watch encouraged also by the mono-pusher chronograph and elongated lugs.
The calibre L788.2 is a self-winding mechanical movement with column wheel and single push piece. The chronograph hosts a central 60 second hand and a 30 minute counter at 3 o’clock. The timepiece powers at 28,800 vibrations per hour, delivers 54 hours of power and is water resistant to 30 metres depth. The brown alligator strap adds to the handsome vintage aesthetic, complete with stainless steel tang buckle.
Pre-orders for the alluring Longines Pulsometer Chronograph are now being taken.
