The Longines Heritage Diver 1967 Watch Review
Monday - 26 October 2015
by Angus Davies, www.escapementmagazine.com
I have a penchant for divers’ watches and, therefore, it is no surprise that I picked one or two for my list of favourite models. Indeed, it was whilst at the annual watch and jewellery fair that I fell under the spell of the Longines Heritage Diver 1967. Whilst I have no urge to venture deep beneath the ocean’s waves, I appreciate the robust characteristics typical of this genre of watch.
This particular diver’s watch has a maximum water resistance of 300 metres which is clearly less than some ‘professional diver’s watches’ with four figure water resistance, however, it will prove more than adequate for the vast majority of would-be buyers. By adopting this approach, Longines has produced a less bulky and, by default, more wearable timepiece that measures a mere 42mm in diameter.
Another appealing characteristic of this watch is the inclusion of a chronograph. Moreover, this is not merely a modular chronograph, but the technically superior column-wheel variety, often only found in watches costing much more. Indeed, it is the incredible economies of scale that Longines’s parent company, the Swatch Group, enjoys which allows it to deliver so much for what is a comparatively modest sum of £2080 (RRP as at 24.7.2015). The benefit of a column-wheel chronograph is that the pushpieces operate with a silky-smooth motion and there is a welcome absence of stutter as the stopwatch function is actuated.
Where this particular diver’s watch also excels is with its charming blend of design details. The bezel eschews traditional black-hues, featuring a striking Bordeaux-red aluminium item. At first glance, the watch appears to be bi-compax with two silver-toned subdials, but look again and you will discover a black 12-hour chronograph register. The scale of each subdial is different, bestowing a smile-inducing flourish of style.
A key attribute of this watch is the practicality it offers. The dial is simple to read, the chronograph is a useful complication for everyday life, the water resistance mitigates the risk of ingress and the steel bracelet is ideal for those wearers who enjoy an active lifestyle. If you also consider the handsome mien and the competitive pricing of the Longines Heritage Diver 1967, it is definitely worth exploring.
