Longines Hour Angle 90th Anniversary Watch Review
Friday - 05 May 2017
Longines mark a truly special occasion in aviation history with the timely release of the Lindbergh Hour Angle. 90 years have passed since Charles Lindbergh piloted the first ever non stop solo transatlantic flight from New York to Paris. An incredible challenge that took thirty-three and a half hours in total; a time that was recorded by Longines themselves holding a special place in the watch brands history.
The courageous man who substituted a radio and parachute for extra fuel, was also an innovator of his time. Not long after safely landing at the airport in Bourget, Mr Lindbergh sketched a watch that would become an essential aviation navigation tool. Longines made his design a reality developing his concept to execute the Hour Angle timepiece; an instrument that was able to precisely calculate longitude to find an exact geographical position. The legendary watch evolved into a vital navigation tool for fearless pilots; the perfect watch to revisit to mark the 90th anniversary.
Inspired by the 1920’s model, the new edition thrusts the design into a modern age with a bold aesthetic that captures the brave spirit of Charles himself. Making an impact on the wrist, the Limited Edition carries a fondness for its predecessor via a hint of vintage charm. The 47.5 mm diameter demands attention with the monochrome colour palette that leaps from the dial. To finish the design the brown leather aviator type strap features an extension to ensure that the instrument can fasten over a pilots jacket; a key feature for aviation timepieces.
The exceptional design is also functional with roman numerals depicting the time and a 180 degree scale to measure longitude. The galvanised black rotating centre dial enables for the second hand to synchronise with a radio time signal and the black PVD steel rotating bezel corrects the equation of time. Housing an automatic winding mechanical movement, L699.2 calibre the Hour Angle has an impressive 46 hour power reserve.
The anniversary piece celebrates such a magnificent moment in history that captures the courage and pioneering spirit of Charles Lindbergh. A powerful instrument that will proudly be worn by watch fanatics worldwide.
