Longines Heritage Classic "Sector Dial": A Vintage Re-Edition Review

jlux · 2020-08-15T02:23:53Z

Explore the Longines Heritage Classic "Sector Dial" with collector jlux. Discover why this 1934 re-edition, with its 38.5mm case and exclusive ETA movement, is a standout.

jlux

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

26 replies3263 views6 photos

Jlux's detailed review of the Longines Heritage Classic 'Sector Dial' offers a compelling look at how modern re-editions can successfully capture vintage aesthetics while delivering contemporary quality. Gerard's insights highlight the careful design choices, from the dial proportions to the movement, that make this particular Longines reference stand out. His personal experience provides valuable context for collectors considering heritage-inspired timepieces.

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The Heritage Classic "Sector dial" based on a watch from 1934.

The dimensions have grown from +- 33 mm to a now very wearable 38.5 mm by keeping the correct proportions of the dial vs the small seconds placement.

Even the "cut 6" was part of the original design.

I certainly do like what Longines is doing with their heritage re-edition line although I do not always find the result to be as convincing as with this watch.

This one gives you a real vintage feel but with an overall build quality that is way above to what was possible during the days of the original model.

Here the "sector" dial is the real star and is executed with a stunning quality and attention to detail.

The case is completely brushed with long ergonomic lugs and makes the watch look bigger on the wrist than the stated 38.5mm.

Of course a manual wound movement would be more natural for such a watch but the automatic movement chosen by Longines is of top notch quality.

It is a Longines exclusive ETA movement with long power reserve (64 hours) and silicone hairspring.The accuracy is amazing with +1 sec/day and this is not by coincidence as my two other Longines watches are equally accurate!

Of course it was a wise move to have a closed caseback for this watch.

Here a wristshot to show how this watch behaves on my 16.5 cm wrist.

I am very pleased with this watch.

The overall quality is just remarkable for the very fair price and I will for sure also have a look at the recently announced "Tuxedo" models that will hit the AD's in a few weeks.

Thanks for looking,

Gerard

Key Points from the Discussion

The 'cut 6' on the dial, while part of the original 1934 design, is interpreted by some as resembling the small Omega symbol, sparking discussion about potential brand connections within the Swatch Group.
The Longines Heritage Classic 'Sector Dial' is praised for its exceptional quality relative to its price point, with the original author suggesting it offers 80% of Omega's quality for 40% of the cost.
The watch's dimensions, specifically the 38.5mm case size and the balanced dial proportions, are considered spot-on for a vintage re-edition, avoiding common pitfalls like oversized cases or unnecessary date windows.
The exclusive Longines ETA movement, featuring a 64-hour power reserve and a silicon hairspring, is highlighted for its impressive accuracy, with the author noting consistent +1 sec/day performance across multiple Longines watches.
The brushed case finish and ergonomic lugs contribute to the watch's vintage appeal and make it wear larger than its stated 38.5mm, enhancing its wrist presence.
The 'Sector Dial' is considered a standout piece within Longines' Heritage collection, with some contributors suggesting few other models come close to its execution and aesthetic appeal.

The Discussion

Cpt Scarlet

Aug 15, 2020

Well judged and they resisted increasing the size and throwing in a date window. Well done Longines !

LiftAngle51

Aug 15, 2020

First: I like the watch. Second: Gerard, you purchased a great watch. The sectored 3 is an Omega sign in small capital. The brushed case is fabulous. The size, spot on. The antimagnetic Eta movement is a win win. An ideal entry for the people who wants to go into serious good watches. I think nobody can get wrong with it. For me there are a few things which had be better. Not the cut off 6 at six. Me with a perfectionist personality, weights all on a balance, so only the perfect watch is a watch

jlux

Aug 15, 2020

It is interesting for you to mention Omega: I always think that you get 80% of the Omega quality for 40% of the price (and I am a big Omega fan...).

Reuven Malter

Aug 15, 2020

I would even say that there is no other piece from their collection even close to this one. I would call that dial even shiny and the hands are just perfect, too. So i cant wait for their marine nationale to show up - maybe this one can compete with this perfect sector dial. Thanks for the great pictures and the very nice text

LiftAngle51

Aug 15, 2020

The last letter of the Greek alphabet. The Ohm sing is the capital Omega. A w looking sign is the small Omega. The number 3 turned 90 degrees clockwise is almost a perfect small Omega. If Longines hint to Omega, i do not know, but i interpreted it as a link to Omega. If i lay my Omega next to my Longines, i see difference in quality. You can do also do it, because i saw many of your watches. My watches were at the same price range, and definitely Omega is higher at every aspect. This made my Lon

jlux

Aug 15, 2020

I have however given up on the vintage market: there are just too many traps when you are not a real expert.

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Longines Heritage Classic "Sector Dial": A Vintage Re-Edition Review

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