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Reflections on time

Zhuan Lee
Zhuan Lee • 9 min read
Longines CEO Matthias Breschan discusses the brand's evolution and prospects as a historic Swiss watchmaker at their recent 2024 novelties presentation in Bangkok

Few watch brands boast as authentic and storied a legacy as the Swiss watchmaker Longines. Established in 1832 by Auguste Agassiz in the village of Saint-Imier, Switzerland, and later led by his nephew, Ernest Francillon, the brand’s winged hourglass logo, registered in 1889, remains the world’s oldest trademark. 

Longines swiftly gained acclaim for its timekeeping accuracy, earning numerous awards at prestigious events such as the Universal Exhibition in Paris as early as 1867.

Alongside its achievements in timekeeping, Longines has been pivotal in shaping the evolution of watchmaking technology. It led the way with groundbreaking innovations like the first high-frequency pocket chronograph in 1929, the inaugural wristwatch with a rotating bezel in 1931, and the pioneering flyback chronograph in 1936. Additionally, Longines was among the first Swiss watchmakers to introduce quartz wristwatches in 1969.

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