Introducing Longines Honors Its Heritage with the Ultra-Chron Classic

Nearly six decades after the debut of the legendary Ultra-Chron collection, Longines pays tribute to the pioneering spirit that defined it with the new Ultra-Chron Classic. Inspired by the iconic 1967 model and backed by over a century of innovation in high-frequency technology, the Ultra-Chron Classic impresses with its high-frequency calibre, refined proportions, and authentically reimagined bracelet design, together celebrating one of watchmaking’s most remarkable milestones.

Like its predecessor, the new Ultra-Chron Classic stands out for its elegant proportions. Crafted in stainless steel, the case is available in two sizes, 37 mm and 40 mm, both maintaining an impressively slim profile of just 10.95 mm. The smaller 37 mm version was carefully selected to echo the original 1967 model’s 35 mm proportions, preserving the authentic spirit of the vintage timepiece.

Both case sizes feature a refined interplay of finishes: finely brushed surfaces on the sides and lugs contrast beautifully with a brightly polished bezel that frames the dial. The faceted lugs flow seamlessly from the main case body, while the push-pull crown, finely knurled for enhanced grip,  bears the signature winged hourglass emblem of Longines.

Protecting the dial is a modern box-style sapphire crystal that recreates the charm of vintage acrylic while offering superior scratch resistance. The stainless-steel caseback is engraved with “Chronometer Officially Certified” and the Ultra-Chron logo.

At the heart of the design lies a domed silver sunray dial, bisected by a subtle crosshair, a classic mid-century detail that adds a sense of technical precision. Twelve applied, silver-polished indices, each faceted and block-shaped, catch the light from multiple angles to ensure excellent legibility. The rhodium-plated stick hands complement the refined aesthetic. Below 12 o’clock sits the applied winged hourglass emblem, while above 6 o’clock, the original Ultra-Chron logo — a stylized wave — nods to the high-frequency oscillations of the movement and its 1967 predecessor.

Powering the watch is the exclusive Longines Calibre L836.6, a high-frequency self-winding movement first introduced in 2022. Operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz); the same rate as the original 1967 Ultra-Chron, it ensures outstanding stability and precision in daily wear. (You can read our technical article on frequency for a deeper understanding of this fascinating phenomenon.)

The Calibre L836.6 also incorporates a silicon balance spring, significantly enhancing both accuracy and longevity. Its resistance to magnetism is ten times greater than the benchmark set by the ISO 764 standard, providing robust protection from the magnetic fields generated by everyday electronics. The self-winding movement further delivers a power reserve of approximately 52 hours.

Longines’ commitment to precision with the Ultra-Chron Classic extends beyond conventional chronometer standards. While many brands test only their uncased movements through the COSC, Longines submits the entire finished watch to a more rigorous certification. Each Ultra-Chron Classic earns full chronometer certification from the Observatoire Chronométrique de Genève, an independent testing body operated by the TIMELAB Foundation, ensuring accuracy that reflects real-world performance.

The bracelet design draws inspiration from the distinctive groove pattern of the 1967 model. The alternating brushed and polished stainless-steel finish offers both visual refinement and comfortable wear, while a double-folding safety clasp with micro-adjustment ensures a secure and tailored fit. The watch is also available with a black leather strap featuring a heritage stainless-steel pin buckle, echoing the design codes of the original era.

Both versions are not limited editions, priced at USD 3,900 (AED 14,300) for the leather strap version, and USD 4,000 (AED 14,700) for the bracelet version.

For more information, visit Longines official website.