Longines Admiral

This Longines Admiral Automatic is a lovely slice of seventies watch design. Dating to 1974 and measuring 40 mm, it has a broad, almost UFO-like presence on the wrist, with a stainless steel case that feels very much of its time in the best possible way.

Here at AWCO we think the charm is in the shape. The round brushed bezel, polished case sides and integrated-style steel bracelet give the watch a clean, architectural feel. It is sporty, but not in the modern tool-watch sense. More elegant, more experimental and very seventies.

The silver dial keeps the design nicely balanced. Slim blue hour markers add a subtle touch of colour, while small gold-tone accents at the quarters bring a little warmth to the otherwise cool steel look. The black hands, central seconds hand and framed date window at three o’clock keep everything practical and easy to read. Under the acrylic crystal, the whole dial has that soft vintage glow we always like to see.

This example comes on its original steel bracelet, which suits the case beautifully and gives the watch a nicely complete feel. Turn it over and the stainless steel caseback keeps things simple, exactly as one expects from a clean, wearable Longines of the period.

Inside is an automatic movement, in keeping with the everyday character of the Admiral line. Longines has always had a strong reputation for elegant, well-made watches, with roots going back to Saint-Imier in 1832 and one of the most recognisable logos in watchmaking. By the 1970s, the brand was clearly willing to play with shape and proportion, and this Admiral captures that vibe very well.

A cool, quietly funky vintage Longines with strong seventies character, a lovely silver dial and a bracelet that completes the look. Understated, interesting and very wearable. Come see it for yourself at Reestraat 3, Amsterdam.