A New Cushion-Shaped Collectible – The Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition
Thursday - 04 July 2024
Longines unveils a new moody low-contrast Majetek watch following last year’s reimagination. Meet the new Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition watch.
An Iconic 1935 Commission
Let’s whizz back to 2023. Longines reimagined a very important 1930s classic – the Majetek. That word, short for “Majetek Vojenské Správy” or “Property of the Military”, came to be a recognised name in elite watch collecting circles and was loved for its distinctive cushion-shaped case and its exclusivity (since it began its life as a made-to-order military tool for the Czech Air Force). Ever since then, the design has been hugely sought-after. Longines’ release last year captured the charm and old-world character of this original Majetek watch, hinting at the cushion-shaped form of its ancestor.
This wasn’t the only reimagination of the vintage Majetek timepiece, however. Several have been released by the Swiss watchmaker over the years. But the 2023 model bore some subtle modern tweaks, including bolder proportions and an improved movement. Its size was pretty accurate, Whereas the original model measured 40mm in diameter, which was huge for 1935, the recent watch measured 43mm and was similarly large on the wrist. One significant difference in the 2023 Longines Majetek design, however, was the short, broad, wedge-like lugs, which replaced the slender, sloping profile of the former lugs.
Still, collectors loved this beefier design of the Majetek, with a new crown guard that changed the shape of the case and how it was worn. Nods were made to the original 1935 model with an exclusive engraving on the 9 o’clock side of the case, and a change of bezel brought a welcomed feature. Instead of the bezel moving simultaneously with the glass and internal pointer, the 2023 version featured a bezel with a smooth inner ring that rotated independently of the sapphire crystal glass. Last year’s watch also featured a 100-meter water resistance, enabling it to be worn as a general-purpose timepiece every day of the week.
Now, we move on to Longine’s latest offering from the Majetek chronicles. This time, the watch feels more contemporary, with a moody colour palette and low-contrast finishes that make it look particularly understated and humble on the wrist. The new release goes by the name of the Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition and puts a more functional spin on the charismatic Majetek of yesteryear.
The New Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition
The new Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition watch retains the overall shape of the former Majetek watch but now boasts new and improved materials. Its titanium case is not only stronger than stainless steel but lighter too. The grade 5 titanium exterior changes the character of the watch, enabling the wearer to carry it with more presence. The cushion-shaped case is almost square in profile and sits at a height of 13.3mm. The squared-off crown guards are a nice addition. I like the way they create a chunkier, heftier look. Pre-war design features are also present. Take the fluted bezel as an example, which adds a ton of personality and character to the design. I also like the contrasting case finishes, which run throughout. Longines experts use a mix of mirror polishing and linear brushing. Despite its large case size, the lightweight properties of the titanium material are manageable and comfortable. Although the limited edition text on the caseback is new, the rest of the rear side of the watch stays the same as last year.
The new Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition watch is 100-meter water resistant and has been produced in a limited run of 1,935 – an ode to the year of the original watch’s manufacture. The watch imparts a sporty look thanks to its case shape and the addition of the black fabric strap. The execution of the dial is darker than the 2023 version, however. Crisp Arabic numerals are raised from the surface of the dial, while the chemin-de-fer outer minutes track adds a considerable level of detail to the display. The hands are sword-shaped and straight, apart from their narrowing, tapering tips. These aid legibility in all lighting conditions thanks to their generous application of luminous material to match the surface of the hour markers. The textured dial is home to a small running seconds feature at 6 o’clock, highlighted in putty grey accents to enable it to stand out. For a simple dial design, this Longines Majetek watch manages to create a lot of three-dimensional charm. One of the main differences between this model and last year’s is the replacement of the warm, patinated look of the 2023 version, Instead, Longines experts opt for a muted look. It imparts a real sense of sophistication and will easily pair with smart attire, despite the soft and casual feel of the fabric strap.
The grainy, asphalt-like dial texture is incredibly compelling, but what lies under this is an equally impressive mechanical heart. The automatic Calibre L893.6 is a self-winding engine that is equipped with a silicone balance spring. The COSC-certified movement performs at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour and provides a power reserve of 72 hours once fully wound.
I especially like the putty grey elements of this new Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition watch. The watch retains its military tool-inspired aesthetics while bringing something altogether more modern to the table. If you’d like to learn more about the watch, you can check it out online here at Jura Watches. Alternatively, you can give our sales team a call today on 01335 453453 or email us a question at help@jurawatches.co.uk. We also offer several online finance options for our Longines watches. For more information on those, call us today.
