The iconic tool-watch kicks off a new year with a new look
The arrival of a new year is the perfect opportunity for a fresh start and new beginnings. And it seems Longines agrees, giving brand stalwart, the Legend Diver, a completely redesigned 39mm case in time for the holidays. That said, the revolutionary foundation of two screw-down crowns and an internal rotating bezel laid by the original 1959 model remains very much in place.
In its latest guise, the Legend Diver’s instantly recognisable dial—now available in black or blue lacquer—is topped by a domed sapphire crystal with black metal plating and multiple layers of anti-reflective protection on both sides. The hours are marked by elongated indexes and raised luminescent Arabic numerals. The new rhodium-plated and polished arrow-hands, coated with Super LumiNova, indicate the time with optimum visibility.
Naturally, the internal bidirectional rotating bezel for measuring dive time is front and centre in this release. Its position inside the case protects it from handling and accidental shocks that could disrupt its settings. The screw-down crown at two o’clock activates it on a graduated 60-minute scale, which is located on the case flange and capped at 12 o’clock with a luminescent triangle symbol.
The Legend Diver is certified as a Divers’ Watch (ISO 6425) with a water-resistance up to 30 bar/300m. The entire watch is also chronometer-certified by COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres). During the certification process, the watch head, with the movement running in the case, was tested for 15 consecutive, uninterrupted days in different positions at three temperature levels to guarantee its precision. This underwater prowess is best exemplified by the collection’s symbol, a diver, that is stamped on the screw-down caseback.
The model is driven by the Longines L888.6 calibre equipped with a silicon balance-spring and innovative components. Together, they offer a magnetic resistance 10 times greater than the ISO 764 benchmark standard. The self-winding mechanical movement has a power reserve of up to 72 hours.
The Legend Diver’s sleek stainless-steel case of alternating polished and satin-brushed surfaces is well matched by a choice of three bands: a brown leather strap, a blue NATO strap and a stainless-steel bracelet with a double-safety folding clasp. All in all, a worthy successor to Longines’ 86-year legacy of sport and underwater exploration.
