A Journey into Longines’ Heritage:Brand Heritage Talk and Vintage Timepiece Exhibition
The Evolution of Two Century Rich Legacy
Longines Hong Kong recently hosted an exclusive Brand Heritage Talk featuring esteemed guest speaker Mr. Daniel Hug,Head of Brand Heritage at Longines HQ and a Member of the Management Board. The event provided attendees with valuable insights into the rich history and enduring legacy of Longines.
Daniel Hug, an expert in horological heritage, has been instrumental in curating Longines’ extensive historical archives and overseeing its heritage exhibitions. He has played a key role in establishing the Collector’s Corner at Longines’ Geneva Boutique, a dedicated space showcasing meticulously curated vintage timepieces that highlight the brand’s storied past.
His deep knowledge and passion for watchmaking history make him a respected authority in the field, and he was able to inspire several models with links to the brand’s heritage that are in the Longines collection of today.
During his presentation, Daniel explored the brand’s two-century legacy, highlighting its evolution in precision and innovation.
He emphasized Longines’ long standing relationship with China, dating back to 1867 when its first pocket watch was sold in Canton. By the 1970s, Hong Kong had become one of Longines’ four biggest markets, and the brand played a key role in timing during the opening of the Kwun Tong MTR line in 1979. Today, Longines continues to be the official timekeeper for major sporting events, such as the Longines Hong Kong International Races, reinforcing its deep-rooted presence in the region.
In addition to its presence in China and Hong Kong, Longines has also been a pioneer in aviation and timekeeping. The brand provided precision instruments for legendary pilots like Amelia Earhart, the first female pilot to fly solo across the AtlanticOcean. Setting industry standards with innovations such as the double time-zone and flyback chronograph function ofAviator’s wristwatch and the rotating bezel for navigation, Longines has also been at the forefront of sports timing, developing electromechanical systems and high-frequency stopwatches capable of measuring up to 1/100th of a second.
The brand’s motto, “Elegance is an Attitude,” is deeply reflected in its timepieces, which combine avant-garde design with technical excellence. From early wristwatches featuring dual time zones to modern high-frequency movements, Longines remains a leader in horological innovation, continually pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship and precision.
Beyond the engaging discussion, attendees were captivated by a rare display of vintage Longines timepieces. These historical pieces showcased the brand’s unwavering dedication to precision, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance, fascinating watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. Among the exquisite museum pieces on display were:Longines Zulu Time, Pilot Chronograph with starting time indicator, Longines Flyback Chronograph, Chronograph Flyback, Longines Ultra Chron Diver & Diver chronograph flyback
