From Longines, a name synonymous with pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to horological innovation, a new chapter unfolds in the esteemed Ultra-Chron lineage. The ULTRA-CHRON CARBON is not simply a reissue; it is a reinterpretation, a contemporary articulation of a legacy forged in the pursuit of high-frequency precision, drawing inspiration from the groundbreaking Ultra-Chron Diver of 1968, the first dive watch to house a high-beat movement. This latest iteration seamlessly blends the iconic aesthetic codes of its predecessor with cutting-edge materials and a chronometer-certified calibre, resulting in a timepiece that is both a nod to history and a bold stride into the future of performance horology.
The narrative of the Ultra-Chron Watch is deeply entwined with Longines’ pioneering role in high-frequency technology. As early as 1910, the winged hourglass marque established its mastery with the creation of the first high-frequency timekeeping device capable of measuring intervals as minuscule as 1/10th of a second. This pursuit of precision culminated in 1959 with the development of the first high-beat movement for a wristwatch, an observatory chronometer that shattered records in accuracy. The ULTRA-CHRON CARBON now carries this torch forward, inheriting not only the aesthetic DNA of the 1968 diver but also the unwavering commitment to chronometric excellence that defines Longines’ high-frequency heritage. This is a watch imbued with history, reimagined for the demands of the modern era.
The silhouette of the ULTRA-CHRON CARBON remains true to its lineage, presenting a robustly round form, yet its construction is decidedly contemporary. Forged from titanium and carbon, the 43mm case achieves a remarkable lightness, weighing a mere 67 grams, while maintaining exceptional strength and resilience. The interplay of these advanced materials lends the watch a distinct tactile and visual character, hinting at its high-performance heart.
Protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, treated with multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on both sides, the anthracite dial is presented with exceptional clarity and legibility. This dark, subtle dial provides a sophisticated backdrop for the luminous hands and markers, ensuring unwavering readability in all conditions, a crucial feature for a timepiece inheriting the diver’s designation. The robust screw-in crown and screw-down case back contribute to its impressive water resistance of 30 bar, further solidifying its credentials as a timepiece built for both land and sea.
Powering the ULTRA-CHRON CARBON (£4550) is the heart of its high-frequency identity: the Calibre L836, a self-winding mechanical movement beating at a remarkable 36,000 vibrations per hour. This elevated frequency, a hallmark of Longines’ expertise, translates directly into enhanced accuracy and precision in timekeeping. The movement incorporates a monocrystalline silicon balance-spring, a cutting-edge material choice that further enhances its performance and resistance to magnetic fields, ensuring unwavering chronometric integrity in the face of modern environmental challenges.
With a power reserve of up to 52 hours, the L836 calibre offers both robust performance and practical everyday wearability. Visible through the screw-down caseback, the movement represents not only a technical achievement but also a visual testament to Longines’ commitment to horological artistry.
Completing the ULTRA-CHRON CARBON is a durable and comfortable nylon strap bracelet, secured with a lightweight titanium buckle. This strap choice further reinforces the watch’s sporty character and contemporary design ethos, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit even during active pursuits. The Longines ULTRA-CHRON CARBON is more than just a wristwatch; it is a fusion of heritage and innovation, a modern reimagining of a high-frequency legend. It stands as a compelling offering for the discerning collector who appreciates both the rich history of Longines and the relentless pursuit of precision in contemporary watchmaking, a timepiece poised to carve its own legacy within the annals of horological excellence.
