I had BB GMT and now have the blue Longines 39mm Zulu and I prefer the case dimensions and style of the Zulu, it keeps perfect time and is very impressive in every way, I’m a big Tudor fan, but now a growing Longines fan too, great watch
Longines is knocking it out of the park! I believe Longines will be a very popular once again. Longines doesn’t get the recognition it really deserves.
Longines is quite popular. Global market share is 5.6% to make it to #8 globally. Tudor isn't even close to the top 10 with a market share of less than 2%. Longines is just behind AP (#7). Only in UA-cam you get the false impression Tudor is more popular. It's being pushed by pr payroll guys in UA-cam
Very good! I enjoy the nuanced analysis and the intelligent, pragmatic reasoning behind your assertions without undermining the viewer's subjective tastes. I find your presentations eye opening in the sense of nudging the viewer to look closer at a subject that deserves a deeper insight than just something cool or pretty to wear and/or money making opportunity.
I got the anthracite dial, green bezel 39mm Spirit Zulu Time on the bracelet. I love it! I wanted a GMT since my collection lacked one. The Tudor just looked too chunky to me. I also didn't want a plain metal bezel or a Pepsi bezel, since so many brands are doing that. This Longines is unique. I chose the anthracite/green version because I like the GMT hand colour coordinating with the hour, minute and second hands. I have a 6.5" wrist, and the watch fits perfectly.
I have the 42mm in black. I was not impressed with the blue GMT hand in media, but it looks great in person. Another difference between media and in-person is the color of the bezel. The bezel on the black is more of a dark charcoal. It is lighter than the dial. Love the watch. The only thing I'm missing from the experience is a quick-adjust bracelet. My watch is averaging +2 s/d in real-world conditions (wearing it).
@@startupbusinesscoaching 7". I would say you could still go to an AD and try it on. The circumference of your wrist isn't the whole story. Some people's wrists are flatter than others. A flatter wrist can get away with things a larger wrist that is round couldn't.
Great video. Great watch. I have the 42mm version which has a funny story. A week after the purchase, I decided to measure the accuracy. I stopped the second hand at 12 o'clock and noticed that the tail of the hand was curved. At first I thought it was a hallucination, but no. The dealer spent several ten minutes trying to figure out what was wrong. He applied the ruler to the dial, twisted them at different angles and, lo and behold, he saw it too. But this is only half the story; the problem should have been seen in Switzerland. And they didn't see it. Only after I wrote to them directly with photos on which lines and arrows were drawn in Paint indicating the problem.
great video about the dress watches: that's a clear win for Longines in my opinion. The sector dial for around 2k is stunning. The DolceVita watches are also great value. And also in the Master Collection there are absolutely beautiful watches. Don't get me wrong, Tudor has great watches. But when it comes to value Longines is arguably the best brand in the game around that price.
I tend to agree. Tudor has also been moving a bit upmarket which has made them slightly less of a value prop compared to what they were just 2 years ago. Thanks for sharing 😀😀😀
Just bought the 39mm green bezel zulu in steel at a good price. Definitely a fantastic watch thanks for the review. I love the gilded golden numbers, wings, stars, and hands. The dial looks not so busy in person as you mostly see the golden shiny wings and stars and not the "automatic" "zulu time" and "chronometer" writing
I'd appreciate your opinion on the new Hydroconquest GMT, especially vs Zulu Time. A full video review would be amazing. I've been eying Longines for some time now, they are the most interesting luxury brand to me due to heritage, choices and price performance ratio. I bought a green bezel Hydroconquest but am returning it due to the size and bracelet. But I'll probably get the Legend Diver, HC GMT or Zulu. I'm a fan of Omega designs and movements but it's too expensive and used Tudor are ok but are kind of repetitive, a one trick pony. Longines is right there in the sweet spot with great variety and bang for buck.
I looked at the Tudor BB and then looked at the 42mm Zulu in Anthracite and Green on a metal bracelet. There is no comparison whatsoever. Zulu all the way in terms of style, functions, finish, quality and price.
I think that the market positioning of rolex-tudor and Omega-Longines is really interesting: historically, Rolex has been the competitor for Omega, but with Tudor's moves with METAS certification and "exotic" materials like Ti and ceramics - similar to Omega's offerings - would appear to be saying "Omega isn't competitive to Rolex, just look at the lower-tier Tudors and see what we can do for less money;" yet here we see the response from Swatch with Longines clearly firing across Tudor's bow with a similar comparison to Tudor's novelties at better prices. That's a really interesting market dynamic at play.
I don’t doubt that Tudor would like thenselves to be positioned more in the Omega segment than the Longines segment. Tudor wants to be away from the brands that don’t have flagship stores. They want to be flagship like Omega but a smidge cheaper. And I agree Longines, although bigger than Tudor (by a wide margin) need to do something to win back the conversation… Thanks for sharing your thoughts 😀😀😀
Longines already running circles around Tudor. Global market share of 5.6% to land at #8 globally just behind AP at #7. Tudor isn't even near the top 10 with less than 2% market share. Noisy minority UA-camrs some paid pr payroll 🎉
Tudor is incredibly boring and only seems to compete with Longines because Longines market share in the US is minuscule compared to its market share in Asia. So in the west Longines doesn’t seem that huge even though it’s globally a massive brand.
The 40mm three-hand really kicked of my love for the brand. The Spirit line really shines in that price range and I'd prefer it over anything from TAG or Tudor. To me it represents what the Air-King should have developed into after the 14000 rather than turning into a rocket car.
Great review. I tried on the 39mm black model at the Longines boutique yesterday. I have a 17cm wrist and it was an excellent fit. The 42mm model was to big for me. I previously had the Tudor GMT. Good looking watch but too slab sided. I have 40mm Spirit and the quality and accuracy is excellent.
i have no problems with the splash of blue/red on the GMT hand and also the zulu time word. It will be super flat if there's only 2 colours. and the 5 stars adds character to the watch, love it
I agree that has been in a rut but that’s why I am rooting and looking forward to their new designs. for Longines, what I want to see more are more positive reviews like this one or an original that I would like. Tudor for me captured the daily watch category/ tool watch. Rolex twice now for me had issues with shipping parts for my explorer so I don’t use it for daily where it can get banged up or stolen. No experience of watch getting stolen but recently I get conscious to wear. So I bought a Tudor for achieving my work goal I set 6-7 years ago. I wish Tudor has better servicing times.
Excellent video, it seems that you really enjoy the hobbie, however, I disagree with you when you say that Longines is not a world class watchmaker, I really think they are, they did set the standards for many things in the industry back in the day, and also are a lot bigger than Tudor as a company, and also well better known overall worldwide. I love both brands, currently own Longines Spirit 42, Longines Hydroconquest 41, Tudor Ranger, Pelagos 42 and BB58. Love them all. Cheers.
I love watches and all things watch related. It’s almost a manic obsession 😀😂 Fair point about world class - I think it’s down to definitions for me. Heritage, legacy and all that, Longines definitely have a lot to be proud of. But…. If the bar is Patek or Lange, then world class they aren’t. But for what they are and where they compete, I agree with you - They are f&x$ing amazing in that space (historically and currently) 😀😀 Cheers! 🤙
Its the blue spirit zulu for me. Why is everybody so worried about the 21mm lug width? I just bought a bunch of 21mm straps for my Seiko 911 on Strapsco and most straps are available in all sizes.
42mm already competed against the BB. As the owner of the 42(green bezel)I generally like it but it’s at my limit lug to lug. The strap wears smaller and on the strap it looks more rugged, more Indiana Jones. The finish is great and it feels top notch. That said, I originally thought the 39mm would be a better size but the way it is deigned the lug to lug looks too long and somewhat disproportionate.
Great insight on the proportions. I personally prefer the sleeker look of the 39 for the same reason, but yesterday I finally had it on wrist and on wrist it does feel a little “long”. Thanks for taking the to share 😀
Glad I recently discovered your channel, very well thought out and concise content 👍🏼 As for the watch: The 💚-bezel might become the first Longines in my collection.
Wow this is a handsome watch! The lugs might not be a problem for us bigger wristed guys. It seems like a left field choice if everyone is rocking the BB58. I love the green but the black makes more sense as it is way more versatile. The date at 06h00 is also more eye pleasing than the 03h00 on the BB58 in my opinion. Thanks for sharing and have a great weekend!💪💪
They come close - The spirit “basic” comes in a 40mm and a 37mm. The 37mm is definitely worth a look. It’s marketed as a womans watch more than a unisex, but so is the Santos medium from Cartier and that works really well on mens wrists too… 😀😀😀
I would be interested in reviews of flieger-style GMT rather than more of the diver-style GMTs. How would the Sinn 856 UTC stack up against those positioned further up-market?
Great video as always - gradually getting to understanding watch design techniques more and more - thank you! Longines watches have more design flair and creativity (than Tudor and many other brands) I would be happy to wear one of these watches for a few days. The perfect watch (for me) has not more than 2 lines of text (where the logo etc counts as a line of text) at 12 and 6 o clock So the word **Automatic** could be inscribed on the caseback together with as many stars as Longines would like to add
You can call me a Tudor hater and that is probably fair- but there have always been watches that I think are better than Tudors for what they cost- but honestly, I just don’t see how anyone can put a Zulu next to a black bay and come away saying they prefer the black bay even if they cost the same which they don’t. The fascination with Tudor just blows my mind. Good lord that Zulu is finer than physics
Longines will always be a budget luxury watch. That's just how people will always view it no matter how much history they have. Just like tudor, for a lot of people, it's a budget rolex, can't change that.
The 42mm actually has a 22mm lug width. Sorry if this has been stated. I disagree with another poster though. Owning the 42mm and with the lug to lug being at the edge for my 6.9” wrist I find it wears longer looking on a strap. The bracelet curvature makes the lug length more understated and allows the watch to big the wrist better.
Have you considered the Longines Hydroconquest GMT? I believe it is the only GMT that is also a diver. The implementation of the timing bezel and the 24-hour chapter ring makes it the only true diver GMT on the market right now.
I shmark for the longines ! Seriously , been eying out a spirit 37mm after frothing over an explorer 36mm for the longest time. I’m pretty sure that will keep the wolves at bay or even cure the itch completely ! I hope lol 😅 Durban is so limited with dealers you have to have a really good imagination before pulling the trigger 😂
Own a Spirit 40 BB54 and 58. Different watches all three, but the Spirit takes the prize with dial and case details and finishing. As for Zulu time, I’ve been very tempted, but all Arabic indices and bezel is a bit busy for me.
When Tudor takes chances they fail?...the last two that come to mind being the Fastrider Blackshield and the North Flag are the only Tudors I own. IMO they didnt fail with those as much as sell out with more recent offerings. Yes the P01 probably didnt do what they wanted but man up and try again. I can only see so many Black Bays...
This longine is a watch I really wanted, I tried it on when it was released in the 42 mm and it was enormous and I was very unimpressed with the bracelet feel, that was not a dealbreaker when I saw the 39 mil was released. I thought that will go great on a nato I don’t know why manufacturers can’t get 39 mil in proportion, 39 mil is 46 lug length, this is one thing sekio get right.
I've tried the green bazel zulu time 39mm today. It's an absolute beauty, but I didn't buy it for two reasons: the bazel rotation felt far from premium. I don't care about the GMT. I'm going to buy a BB 58. I wish Longines would make a zulu time 39mm without the GMT. I would tolerate the date
Loved this review. I'm a Tudor fan, but I'd take this over the BB Pro any day. The heavy slab-sided design is a complete deal-breaker for me. This looks much more elegant. Can't wait to try one.
Have you worn the BB pro? I’ve 6.5” wrist and I wear it as part of a rotation and have no issues with the thickness. Numbers on papers don’t mean much in real life.
The BB pro is cool. I tend to agree though that the +14mm height is a lot for a 39mm watch. It’s ok on the gmt but it feels disproportionate on my wrist at least with that heigh to size ratio. Thanks for contributing 😀😀
To make a full assessment, we’d need to wait a couple of years to see how both the Longines and the Tudor GMT movements perform in real life. Putting that aside, the Longines GMT Spirit is more charming than the Tudor. No two ways about it.
I’m still quite new to watch collecting, but Longines is quickly becoming my favourite ‘grail watch’ brand. They have a very distinct own style that both celebrates their heritage and feels new and fresh. I wholeheartedly agree with the five stars though, it looks a bit tacky. Although it bothers me less seeing it in real life than on pictures. And having said that,(which is probably not a popular opinion) but I have also always found the crown of the Rolex logo to be tacky. I realize it is iconic and Rolex may very well be considered the ‘king’ of watches, but I have always felt that it looks like you are trying too hard. Anyway. I like the channel and I hope I may be lucky enough to at some point in my life own a watch of this calibre.
The problem for me with the Zulu Time is the over-abundance of numerals. There's the hour marker numerals on the dial, and the GMT numerals on the bezel. It's too much. That's why the Tudor works - it has diver-style circular lum plots on the dial, for a far less cluttered look. Longines could probably keep the quarter arabics at 12, 3 and 9 (date at 6), and move those diamonds from 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10 and 11 into the place of the dial numerals as bigger lum-filled diamond-shaped applied indices. I agree about the 5 dial stars - seems pretty naff. For the whole case/bracelet - prefer shorter lugs, female solid end links, and an on-the-fly micro adjustment clasp with twin-trigger release and fold-over latch.
Very good video. Longines offer some excellent watches. I particularly like the Record chronograph, which is a beautiful 1940s retro style bicompax and far more interesting than the Tudor BB chronograph, which always looks clunky to me. One thing that strikes me in the Longines vs Tudor debate that could sway some watch enthusiasts towards Tudor is their in-house movements. That comparison in itself, however, could beg the question, is Tudor's relationship with Kenissi really so different from Longines' with ETA?!
The whole kenissi thing is a real bag of worms. As far as I'm concerned it's more a corporate entity thing more than a separate, distinct company. Seiko as an example is also a bucketload of separate legal entities, and AFAIK, I'm pretty sure movements are in a separate legal entity from the case/watch entity. Nobody accuses Seiko of not being "in-house". The major difference between ETA and Kenissi though is that Kenissi was established by Tudor, while ETA was never a part of Longines (or the other Swatch firms). ETA will always be saddled with the fact that they were a bulk movement supplier. End of the day though, they make some rock solid movements.
The Tudor BB chronograph movement is made by Breitling. It is the B01 movement, which is really a great movement. I believe the Longines is a modified 7750. Good movement, but not in the same class as the Tudor. I hate chronograph divers and would not buy either, but you are getting a good watch either way.
@@rickjason215 you're absolutely right in saying that the Tudor has the superior movement. I've come close to buying a few Longines chronographs a few times, but the movements, particularly the modular chronograph movements, are always the deal breaker for me.
If Tudor wanted to do easy meltdowns they just need to make a GMT looking GMT in the 39mm case and a standard just black and white BB58. Both with T Fit..
What I would like to see Longines do is to provide more model options that use stick indices in lieu of numerals. These numerals add visual clutter, heaviness and positional uncertainty that to me seems to be working against the notion that a pilot or instrument watch has to provide at-a-glance clarity above all else. That's probably why more people respond to the Black Bay divers because the indices as shapes contribute to a visual uniformity. I have a few watches with numeral indices but I tend to favour them less. The Zulu Time does save the Spirit (the non-GMT model) from itself: One thing I noticed about the Spirit is that the case, bezel and optional bracelet becomes too much metal enshrouding and "squeezing" the dial, especially on the 40mm and smaller sizes; Zulu Time's GMT bezel hides that.
I don’t agree with you in terms of dress watch. I think Longines has by FAR better dress watch collections than Tudor. It has more diverse, unique, and more distinctive collections than Tudor. Disclaimer: I’m a Longines Master Collection’s owner who is also planning to get BB54 at the end of this year😅 Anyway, great video as usual!
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Yup, totally agree. Btw I finally found a suitable contender for BB54. For someone who’s looking a small daily sport watch (35-37mm), I recently found Laco Flieger Stuttgart Pro 37mm. 3 highlights: 1) It is a customizable watch w/ >40,000 combinations (you can check their web); 2) Although it’s not COSC and in-house, they have option to use “top grade” movement that guarantee 0 - +8 spd, which is quite niece! ; 3) Of course their history of supplying flieger watches in WWII, which is really cool. I would really appreciate it if you can share your opinion or create a video about this. But regardless, best of luck to you and your channel Mike, cheers!🍻
I checked these out last week - just was seeing so much coverage of it. Certainly compared to Tudor it’s better styled and more interesting. Green looks better on video and stills. Blue looked much better in real life.
There is one thing in the plus side for Longines vs Tudor: you can order a Longines on the internet directly to Longines which you can't do for buying a Tudor! Sorry Tudor it will be a Longines Zulu Time!
I think black bay is a flanker! They need a new design aquatics(diver) or Drive(Chronograph), and flight GMT. Longines innovation team at the moment is creating originals.
I wish they gave it an aluminum bezel insert instead of ceramic. Would have leaned a little more tool watch and the matte finish would have given it some good contrast
Interesting take. I can see what you mean. It would definitely shave off some of that shiny, cocktail, Rolex GMT vibe that it has. Definitely a worthwhile consideration for a change to the design. Good take👍👍👍
Long lug to lug (49) is better for NATO & genuine leather NATO straps... I prefer 40 mm case diameter & 49mm LtoL = Excellent, nearly for every man. Longines Spirit variations are the best, affordable & a real luxury Swiss watch nowadays...
The 104! That watch is amazing. It's on my must have list for this year (totally into that high value / low price range) and the 104 looks like no other. I'm envious 😃
I love my Tudors and am not at all bothered by what some refer to as its “slab sided-ness”. It’s a tool watch. That being said, I’m TRULY impressed with Longines’ catalog. They seem to respond to the market quicker than Tudor (they came out with a smaller case Zulu Time within what? A year of the release of the original? That’s nimble). The ONLY thing that I can say against Longines is their odd numbered lug widths. I want to put it on rubber when swimming (yes, I wear my watches in the water), or on a NATO for day to day. I’m not about to rebuy odd width straps. Seriously, that one aspect prevents me from getting a Zulu Time.
@@cedarcanoe true but they occupy a totally different market tier. Longines needs to give you no reason to not buy them. And, in my opinion, they’ve ALMOST done that.
It’s a fair point. Wierd lug widths are deal breakers for lots of people… Aesthetically they can make sense but there’s just a practicality perspective that means a lot to some people. Thanks for sharing your thoughts 👍👍👍
Longines are improving while having their own identity. Tudor’s quality is getting worse because Tudor doesn’t make anything and you get the poor man’s Rolex baggage with Tudor. They just put all the bits together that are made by various different companies and chunk in that movement that’s in lots other brands now. The “looks like a old Rolex “thing is also getting very boring now. Tudor need to scrap the Pro the 42mm Pelagos and the GMT. They are thick and unrefined while being plagued with quality issues. They should rework the Pelagos 39 too. It’s also had many quality issues 🤦🏻♂️
Give it time with tudor. My guess is the next phase will be thinner watches and thinner movements - The new bb41 indicates that the refinement cycle is beginning 😀 Thanks for contributing 😀
Agree 100%. Culturally, some things don't translate well, in this case from Europe to America. The stars are something I would expect on an Invicta, too blingy.
I don't understand your fascination with Tudor watches. They're ugly blocks with hideous hands on the dial. The ad messed you up. Longines is the equivalent of Rolls Royce. Top class. I wouldn't buy a Tudor even for half the price.
Personally, I think Grand Seiko is overrated. A watch that price should have a bracelet and clasp without problems; GS bracelets and clasps are very lacking. Longines is a complete package; great movement, great watch design, great bracelet and clasp. However, I have "personal" gripes with this watch on design: 1.) lugs are to long, 2.) I wish the arabic numerals were larger.
I owned BB58 and tried on this Longines yesterday. Tudor wins all the way. Longines feels so light and almost fragile. Also not a fan of Longines design at all!
I prefer Longines’ overall design, the Tudor cases and dials are too simple and boring. Having said that, I think the Tudor GMT movements are better, with a higher beat rate and being true GMT.
21mm lugs for a 39mm case? WTF? Total deal killer for me. I definitely could have considered this otherwise. It's as if watch companies intentionally sabotage their own products.
Wow, you really hate this watch 😂 sucks for you it’s going for about $2k on the gray market. Tudor is twice as expensive lol. Not a fair comparison. Also, is any watch perfect? No.
Unless its way better than its big brother, then (design aside) it is nowhere near as good as a Tudor. Sorry to burst your bubble guys. It's a stunning watch (if you like the dimensions of the 39mm), but there is good reason the others cost more ;) Sorry, but so many silly comparisons here. Have you worn all these watches?
those 5 starts on the dial look like amazon reviews. is there any good reason to have them? take them out, it cheapens the watch. just like those humungous numerals on the classic conquest. absolute nonsense
Man, I always love your videos. Simple, clear, and EXTREMELY thoughtful.
Glad you like them!
I try to make something worth watching…. 😀😀😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatchone of the most honest UA-camrs I have ever seen! Thanks for your videos!
I had BB GMT and now have the blue Longines 39mm Zulu and I prefer the case dimensions and style of the Zulu, it keeps perfect time and is very impressive in every way, I’m a big Tudor fan, but now a growing Longines fan too, great watch
Longines are making such a killing on the most recent spirit releases. They're superb 😃😃
incredible watches, Grand Seiko quality...
Longines is knocking it out of the park! I believe Longines will be a very popular once again. Longines doesn’t get the recognition it really deserves.
Totally agree 😀😀😀
Longines is quite popular. Global market share is 5.6% to make it to #8 globally. Tudor isn't even close to the top 10 with a market share of less than 2%.
Longines is just behind AP (#7).
Only in UA-cam you get the false impression Tudor is more popular. It's being pushed by pr payroll guys in UA-cam
Very good!
I enjoy the nuanced analysis and the intelligent, pragmatic reasoning behind your assertions without undermining the viewer's subjective tastes.
I find your presentations eye opening in the sense of nudging the viewer to look closer at a subject that deserves a deeper insight than just something cool or pretty to wear and/or money making opportunity.
Much appreciated! 😀😀
I’m getting my Green Bezel 39mm Zulu GMT..
Beautiful and Awesome watch For me..
Tudor Is too thick for me..
And also…
I😘Love that Ceramic Bezel
Lucky you!!!! It's a stunner - HAve had it in hand now and have to say the 39mm is excellent all round as anticipated 😃😃😃😃😃
Thanks for contributing!
I got the anthracite dial, green bezel 39mm Spirit Zulu Time on the bracelet. I love it! I wanted a GMT since my collection lacked one. The Tudor just looked too chunky to me. I also didn't want a plain metal bezel or a Pepsi bezel, since so many brands are doing that. This Longines is unique. I chose the anthracite/green version because I like the GMT hand colour coordinating with the hour, minute and second hands. I have a 6.5" wrist, and the watch fits perfectly.
I have the 42mm in black. I was not impressed with the blue GMT hand in media, but it looks great in person. Another difference between media and in-person is the color of the bezel. The bezel on the black is more of a dark charcoal. It is lighter than the dial. Love the watch. The only thing I'm missing from the experience is a quick-adjust bracelet. My watch is averaging +2 s/d in real-world conditions (wearing it).
Hello. What size is your wrist? Mine is 6.5”. Thanks!
@@startupbusinesscoaching 7". I would say you could still go to an AD and try it on. The circumference of your wrist isn't the whole story. Some people's wrists are flatter than others. A flatter wrist can get away with things a larger wrist that is round couldn't.
Great video. Great watch. I have the 42mm version which has a funny story.
A week after the purchase, I decided to measure the accuracy. I stopped the second hand at 12 o'clock and noticed that the tail of the hand was curved.
At first I thought it was a hallucination, but no.
The dealer spent several ten minutes trying to figure out what was wrong. He applied the ruler to the dial, twisted them at different angles and, lo and behold, he saw it too.
But this is only half the story; the problem should have been seen in Switzerland. And they didn't see it. Only after I wrote to them directly with photos on which lines and arrows were drawn in Paint indicating the problem.
great video
about the dress watches: that's a clear win for Longines in my opinion. The sector dial for around 2k is stunning. The DolceVita watches are also great value. And also in the Master Collection there are absolutely beautiful watches.
Don't get me wrong, Tudor has great watches. But when it comes to value Longines is arguably the best brand in the game around that price.
I tend to agree. Tudor has also been moving a bit upmarket which has made them slightly less of a value prop compared to what they were just 2 years ago.
Thanks for sharing 😀😀😀
Just bought the 39mm green bezel zulu in steel at a good price. Definitely a fantastic watch thanks for the review. I love the gilded golden numbers, wings, stars, and hands. The dial looks not so busy in person as you mostly see the golden shiny wings and stars and not the "automatic" "zulu time" and "chronometer" writing
I'd appreciate your opinion on the new Hydroconquest GMT, especially vs Zulu Time. A full video review would be amazing.
I've been eying Longines for some time now, they are the most interesting luxury brand to me due to heritage, choices and price performance ratio. I bought a green bezel Hydroconquest but am returning it due to the size and bracelet. But I'll probably get the Legend Diver, HC GMT or Zulu.
I'm a fan of Omega designs and movements but it's too expensive and used Tudor are ok but are kind of repetitive, a one trick pony. Longines is right there in the sweet spot with great variety and bang for buck.
Well said. This 39mm is a banger. But as you said - the lugs might float a little too high for some people's liking.
Longines are killing it lately
They totally are 😀
I looked at the Tudor BB and then looked at the 42mm Zulu in Anthracite and Green on a metal bracelet. There is no comparison whatsoever. Zulu all the way in terms of style, functions, finish, quality and price.
I’ve met quite a few that would agree with you. It’s a really good offering 😀😀😀
I think that the market positioning of rolex-tudor and Omega-Longines is really interesting: historically, Rolex has been the competitor for Omega, but with Tudor's moves with METAS certification and "exotic" materials like Ti and ceramics - similar to Omega's offerings - would appear to be saying "Omega isn't competitive to Rolex, just look at the lower-tier Tudors and see what we can do for less money;" yet here we see the response from Swatch with Longines clearly firing across Tudor's bow with a similar comparison to Tudor's novelties at better prices. That's a really interesting market dynamic at play.
I don’t doubt that Tudor would like thenselves to be positioned more in the Omega segment than the Longines segment. Tudor wants to be away from the brands that don’t have flagship stores. They want to be flagship like Omega but a smidge cheaper.
And I agree Longines, although bigger than Tudor (by a wide margin) need to do something to win back the conversation…
Thanks for sharing your thoughts 😀😀😀
Longines already running circles around Tudor. Global market share of 5.6% to land at #8 globally just behind AP at #7.
Tudor isn't even near the top 10 with less than 2% market share.
Noisy minority UA-camrs some paid pr payroll 🎉
Tudor is incredibly boring and only seems to compete with Longines because Longines market share in the US is minuscule compared to its market share in Asia. So in the west Longines doesn’t seem that huge even though it’s globally a massive brand.
Haha cat and mouse. But I’m getting fired up seeing Longines finally catching up with Tudor🔥
Finally a hit for longines. I have an admiral 5 star from 90’s, still beatiful
I didn’t realize this was your video, when I saw it was you I said oh I love this guy! He talks to us and that’s what I love?
The 40mm three-hand really kicked of my love for the brand. The Spirit line really shines in that price range and I'd prefer it over anything from TAG or Tudor. To me it represents what the Air-King should have developed into after the 14000 rather than turning into a rocket car.
Cool perspective compared to the air king. Hadn’t thought of it that way…
😀😀
Great review. I tried on the 39mm black model at the Longines boutique yesterday. I have a 17cm wrist and it was an excellent fit. The 42mm model was to big for me. I previously had the Tudor GMT. Good looking watch but too slab sided. I have 40mm Spirit and the quality and accuracy is excellent.
Like I said - They make really great watches 😀😀😀👍
i have no problems with the splash of blue/red on the GMT hand and also the zulu time word. It will be super flat if there's only 2 colours.
and the 5 stars adds character to the watch, love it
We all like what we like. Cheers 😀😀
I agree that has been in a rut but that’s why I am rooting and looking forward to their new designs. for Longines, what I want to see more are more positive reviews like this one or an original that I would like. Tudor for me captured the daily watch category/ tool watch. Rolex twice now for me had issues with shipping parts for my explorer so I don’t use it for daily where it can get banged up or stolen. No experience of watch getting stolen but recently I get conscious to wear. So I bought a Tudor for achieving my work goal I set 6-7 years ago. I wish Tudor has better servicing times.
Great points - Servicing times can be all over the place in general is my feeling 😀
Excellent video, it seems that you really enjoy the hobbie, however, I disagree with you when you say that Longines is not a world class watchmaker, I really think they are, they did set the standards for many things in the industry back in the day, and also are a lot bigger than Tudor as a company, and also well better known overall worldwide. I love both brands, currently own Longines Spirit 42, Longines Hydroconquest 41, Tudor Ranger, Pelagos 42 and BB58. Love them all. Cheers.
I love watches and all things watch related. It’s almost a manic obsession 😀😂
Fair point about world class - I think it’s down to definitions for me. Heritage, legacy and all that, Longines definitely have a lot to be proud of. But…. If the bar is Patek or Lange, then world class they aren’t. But for what they are and where they compete, I agree with you - They are f&x$ing amazing in that space (historically and currently) 😀😀
Cheers! 🤙
“What I doo💩 doo💩” 😂
😂😂😂
Its the blue spirit zulu for me. Why is everybody so worried about the 21mm lug width? I just bought a bunch of 21mm straps for my Seiko 911 on Strapsco and most straps are available in all sizes.
42mm already competed against the BB. As the owner of the 42(green bezel)I generally like it but it’s at my limit lug to lug. The strap wears smaller and on the strap it looks more rugged, more Indiana Jones. The finish is great and it feels top notch. That said, I originally thought the 39mm would be a better size but the way it is deigned the lug to lug looks too long and somewhat disproportionate.
Great insight on the proportions. I personally prefer the sleeker look of the 39 for the same reason, but yesterday I finally had it on wrist and on wrist it does feel a little “long”.
Thanks for taking the to share 😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatchthat’s why they call it a LONGines 😉 😅 ok I’ll show myself to the door now lol
Glad I recently discovered your channel, very well thought out and concise content 👍🏼
As for the watch: The 💚-bezel might become the first Longines in my collection.
Thanks for sharing! .😊
I’ve always associated the 5 stars with 5 star generals, a nod to Eisenhower and Longines military history which is extraordinary.
Interesting idea. 😃😃
Wow this is a handsome watch! The lugs might not be a problem for us bigger wristed guys. It seems like a left field choice if everyone is rocking the BB58. I love the green but the black makes more sense as it is way more versatile. The date at 06h00 is also more eye pleasing than the 03h00 on the BB58 in my opinion. Thanks for sharing and have a great weekend!💪💪
And to you to!!! 😀😀😀
I agree, this is indeed a beautiful watch. Personal I wish they make a non GMT of the same specifications.
They come close - The spirit “basic” comes in a 40mm and a 37mm. The 37mm is definitely worth a look. It’s marketed as a womans watch more than a unisex, but so is the Santos medium from Cartier and that works really well on mens wrists too…
😀😀😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Thank you for the info....
I love Tudor and my BB58 Blue is a strap monster, but would greatly enjoy this Longines GMT
Me too 😀
I would be interested in reviews of flieger-style GMT rather than more of the diver-style GMTs. How would the Sinn 856 UTC stack up against those positioned further up-market?
Great video as always - gradually getting to understanding watch design techniques more and more - thank you!
Longines watches have more design flair and creativity (than Tudor and many other brands) I would be happy to wear one of these watches for a few days.
The perfect watch (for me) has not more than 2 lines of text (where the logo etc counts as a line of text) at 12 and 6 o clock
So the word **Automatic** could be inscribed on the caseback together with as many stars as Longines would like to add
Use the caseback - Good idea 😂😂😂😀
Thanks for watching my vids! 😀
You can call me a Tudor hater and that is probably fair- but there have always been watches that I think are better than Tudors for what they cost- but honestly, I just don’t see how anyone can put a Zulu next to a black bay and come away saying they prefer the black bay even if they cost the same which they don’t. The fascination with Tudor just blows my mind. Good lord that Zulu is finer than physics
He he. Tudor sure does get a lot of attention - sometimes deserved but other times it’s ridiculous…. 😳😳😀
Longines will always be a budget luxury watch. That's just how people will always view it no matter how much history they have. Just like tudor, for a lot of people, it's a budget rolex, can't change that.
The 42mm actually has a 22mm lug width. Sorry if this has been stated. I disagree with another poster though. Owning the 42mm and with the lug to lug being at the edge for my 6.9” wrist I find it wears longer looking on a strap. The bracelet curvature makes the lug length more understated and allows the watch to big the wrist better.
Have you considered the Longines Hydroconquest GMT? I believe it is the only GMT that is also a diver. The implementation of the timing bezel and the 24-hour chapter ring makes it the only true diver GMT on the market right now.
Thanks , as a owner of 42 mm Spirit Zulu Time , Green Bezel, no complaint on your comment. I just love it.
Glad you enjoy it! Always buy what you like 😀
Hello! Can I ask for your wrist size? Mind is 6.5”. Wondering if the 42mm lugs are too straight for me…
@@startupbusinesscoaching Mind is 6.5" too. No any problem.
Thank you!
I shmark for the longines !
Seriously , been eying out a spirit 37mm after frothing over an explorer 36mm for the longest time. I’m pretty sure that will keep the wolves at bay or even cure the itch completely ! I hope lol 😅
Durban is so limited with dealers you have to have a really good imagination before pulling the trigger 😂
Never buy a compromise watch! Having said that - The 37 spirit is really really good. It's definitely worth a try on the wrist 😃😃
great video but I have had my bbgmt for a year now and I like it even more, it's my daily wear
BB GMT is in my own personal collection and I have to agree - It's a great watch 😀😀
Great review with excellent insights. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it 😃😃
Own a Spirit 40 BB54 and 58. Different watches all three, but the Spirit takes the prize with dial and case details and finishing. As for Zulu time, I’ve been very tempted, but all Arabic indices and bezel is a bit busy for me.
Very nice collection you have there!!!
The gmt does have a lot going on…
Thanks for sharing 😀😀😀
Excellent and Outstanding!!! Thank You!!!
Thanks and subscribed! My 6.5” wrist too small for the 42? Thx!
When Tudor takes chances they fail?...the last two that come to mind being the Fastrider Blackshield and the North Flag are the only Tudors I own. IMO they didnt fail with those as much as sell out with more recent offerings. Yes the P01 probably didnt do what they wanted but man up and try again. I can only see so many Black Bays...
Black bay ftw apparently.
What then is your thought on the new red bull fxd????
👍
Indeed. Clear opinions. Good voice. Nicely done! Cheers!
Glad you liked it! 😃😃😃
Excellent review. Thanks
Thanks for watching! 😀😀😀😀
Aren’t the five stars a nod to military heritage? I don’t think they have anything to do with the chronometer certification
Deliberating between this Longines or the new Black Bay 58 GMT 🤔
This longine is a watch I really wanted, I tried it on when it was released in the 42 mm and it was enormous and I was very unimpressed with the bracelet feel, that was not a dealbreaker when I saw the 39 mil was released. I thought that will go great on a nato I don’t know why manufacturers can’t get 39 mil in proportion, 39 mil is 46 lug length, this is one thing sekio get right.
I've tried the green bazel zulu time 39mm today. It's an absolute beauty, but I didn't buy it for two reasons: the bazel rotation felt far from premium. I don't care about the GMT. I'm going to buy a BB 58. I wish Longines would make a zulu time 39mm without the GMT. I would tolerate the date
If the price was same which one would you prefer? The BB Pro or Zulu 39?
Zulu. But I also own the explorer ii with polar dial - the bb is just too close visually 😀
Why would a non diving watch have a rotating bezel?
Very keen to view the green and gold version
It is VERY good looking (fauxtina is just not my fave at the moment) 😀😀😀😀
Loved this review. I'm a Tudor fan, but I'd take this over the BB Pro any day. The heavy slab-sided design is a complete deal-breaker for me. This looks much more elegant. Can't wait to try one.
Have you worn the BB pro? I’ve 6.5” wrist and I wear it as part of a rotation and have no issues with the thickness. Numbers on papers don’t mean much in real life.
The BB pro is cool. I tend to agree though that the +14mm height is a lot for a 39mm watch. It’s ok on the gmt but it feels disproportionate on my wrist at least with that heigh to size ratio.
Thanks for contributing 😀😀
Great upload but , IMO Longines has wayyy better dress options from thier Flagship, sector dial no date, their sectores tank etc.
Good point. The royals and princes and so on are not great. It’s only the bb no bezela that have a semi dress quality
Thx for sharing 😀
Any idea why there are so many stars on the dial? One too many, I feel.
5 stars = cosc certified.
Didn’t need to be on the dial though 😀😂😂😂
To make a full assessment, we’d need to wait a couple of years to see how both the Longines and the Tudor GMT movements perform in real life.
Putting that aside, the Longines GMT Spirit is more charming than the Tudor. No two ways about it.
I wish the blue had those gold hands that the black and green bezel have.
Is it free-sprung?
Insightful review. Thank you
Glad it was helpful! 😀😀
The lug to lug still seems off in proportion to the case size. They don't seem to learn much.
I’m still quite new to watch collecting, but Longines is quickly becoming my favourite ‘grail watch’ brand. They have a very distinct own style that both celebrates their heritage and feels new and fresh.
I wholeheartedly agree with the five stars though, it looks a bit tacky. Although it bothers me less seeing it in real life than on pictures. And having said that,(which is probably not a popular opinion) but I have also always found the crown of the Rolex logo to be tacky. I realize it is iconic and Rolex may very well be considered the ‘king’ of watches, but I have always felt that it looks like you are trying too hard.
Anyway. I like the channel and I hope I may be lucky enough to at some point in my life own a watch of this calibre.
Great review as always
Thanks again! 😀
The problem for me with the Zulu Time is the over-abundance of numerals. There's the hour marker numerals on the dial, and the GMT numerals on the bezel. It's too much. That's why the Tudor works - it has diver-style circular lum plots on the dial, for a far less cluttered look. Longines could probably keep the quarter arabics at 12, 3 and 9 (date at 6), and move those diamonds from 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10 and 11 into the place of the dial numerals as bigger lum-filled diamond-shaped applied indices. I agree about the 5 dial stars - seems pretty naff. For the whole case/bracelet - prefer shorter lugs, female solid end links, and an on-the-fly micro adjustment clasp with twin-trigger release and fold-over latch.
Buy a three handed version. Spirit Titanium 40mm 💕👍
Very good video. Longines offer some excellent watches. I particularly like the Record chronograph, which is a beautiful 1940s retro style bicompax and far more interesting than the Tudor BB chronograph, which always looks clunky to me. One thing that strikes me in the Longines vs Tudor debate that could sway some watch enthusiasts towards Tudor is their in-house movements. That comparison in itself, however, could beg the question, is Tudor's relationship with Kenissi really so different from Longines' with ETA?!
The whole kenissi thing is a real bag of worms. As far as I'm concerned it's more a corporate entity thing more than a separate, distinct company. Seiko as an example is also a bucketload of separate legal entities, and AFAIK, I'm pretty sure movements are in a separate legal entity from the case/watch entity. Nobody accuses Seiko of not being "in-house".
The major difference between ETA and Kenissi though is that Kenissi was established by Tudor, while ETA was never a part of Longines (or the other Swatch firms). ETA will always be saddled with the fact that they were a bulk movement supplier. End of the day though, they make some rock solid movements.
The Tudor BB chronograph movement is made by Breitling. It is the B01 movement, which is really a great movement. I believe the Longines is a modified 7750. Good movement, but not in the same class as the Tudor. I hate chronograph divers and would not buy either, but you are getting a good watch either way.
@@rickjason215 you're absolutely right in saying that the Tudor has the superior movement. I've come close to buying a few Longines chronographs a few times, but the movements, particularly the modular chronograph movements, are always the deal breaker for me.
The Zulu is gonna be my next watch. Watch!
Worth a look
Yup 😀
If Tudor wanted to do easy meltdowns they just need to make a GMT looking GMT in the 39mm case and a standard just black and white BB58. Both with T Fit..
Would love T-fit on a Longines and any Tudor that doesn't have it yet.... 😀😀😀
What I would like to see Longines do is to provide more model options that use stick indices in lieu of numerals. These numerals add visual clutter, heaviness and positional uncertainty that to me seems to be working against the notion that a pilot or instrument watch has to provide at-a-glance clarity above all else. That's probably why more people respond to the Black Bay divers because the indices as shapes contribute to a visual uniformity. I have a few watches with numeral indices but I tend to favour them less.
The Zulu Time does save the Spirit (the non-GMT model) from itself: One thing I noticed about the Spirit is that the case, bezel and optional bracelet becomes too much metal enshrouding and "squeezing" the dial, especially on the 40mm and smaller sizes; Zulu Time's GMT bezel hides that.
Their logo from a distance reads as an Invicta
The "*****" are a deal breaker for me. They should get rid of them in a future iteration.
As far as I remember they are not on the hodinkee edition.... 😃
Longines is def a great alternative to a Tudor
Absolutely 😃👍
I could totally see James Bond rocking a Zulu Time.
Totally agree 😀😀😀😀
I don’t agree with you in terms of dress watch. I think Longines has by FAR better dress watch collections than Tudor. It has more diverse, unique, and more distinctive collections than Tudor.
Disclaimer: I’m a Longines Master Collection’s owner who is also planning to get BB54 at the end of this year😅
Anyway, great video as usual!
Thanks (and we don't always have to agree - that would be boring in the long run) 😀😀😀😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Yup, totally agree. Btw I finally found a suitable contender for BB54.
For someone who’s looking a small daily sport watch (35-37mm), I recently found Laco Flieger Stuttgart Pro 37mm. 3 highlights: 1) It is a customizable watch w/ >40,000 combinations (you can check their web); 2) Although it’s not COSC and in-house, they have option to use “top grade” movement that guarantee 0 - +8 spd, which is quite niece! ; 3) Of course their history of supplying flieger watches in WWII, which is really cool.
I would really appreciate it if you can share your opinion or create a video about this. But regardless, best of luck to you and your channel Mike, cheers!🍻
Longines dress watches smoke Tudor's. Very bizarre claim by Mike, especially as their dress watches are why they dominate the Asian market.
I checked these out last week - just was seeing so much coverage of it.
Certainly compared to Tudor it’s better styled and more interesting.
Green looks better on video and stills. Blue looked much better in real life.
Thanks for sharing! Always great to hear how other people view the watch 😀😀👍
let me guess you ride either a cafe racer or an adventure bike am i right???
Road bikes only. Too many near death experiences on mountain bikes😀
Yep
There is one thing in the plus side for Longines vs Tudor: you can order a Longines on the internet directly to Longines which you can't do for buying a Tudor! Sorry Tudor it will be a Longines Zulu Time!
I think black bay is a flanker! They need a new design aquatics(diver) or Drive(Chronograph), and flight GMT. Longines innovation team at the moment is creating originals.
Yeah, take out those stars Longines it looks like they're coming out from a football sweater.
No onthefly adjustable bracelet is a deal breaker
It is for many for sure 😀
I wish they gave it an aluminum bezel insert instead of ceramic. Would have leaned a little more tool watch and the matte finish would have given it some good contrast
Interesting take. I can see what you mean. It would definitely shave off some of that shiny, cocktail, Rolex GMT vibe that it has. Definitely a worthwhile consideration for a change to the design. Good take👍👍👍
Long lug to lug (49) is better for NATO & genuine leather NATO straps... I prefer 40 mm case diameter & 49mm LtoL = Excellent, nearly for every man. Longines Spirit variations are the best, affordable & a real luxury Swiss watch nowadays...
Fair point. Had actually never considered it, but makes sense and after trying it on a couple of my watches I would tend to agree with you 😃😃
Longines sits in that middle area of being tough and pretty at the same time.
Interesting perspective… I can see what you mean 😀
As you said, trade offs exist. My best fitting watch is a Glycine GMT. My "best" overall watches though, are a Sinn 104 and an Omega GMT 50th.
The 104! That watch is amazing. It's on my must have list for this year (totally into that high value / low price range) and the 104 looks like no other.
I'm envious 😃
I love my Tudors and am not at all bothered by what some refer to as its “slab sided-ness”. It’s a tool watch. That being said, I’m TRULY impressed with Longines’ catalog. They seem to respond to the market quicker than Tudor (they came out with a smaller case Zulu Time within what? A year of the release of the original? That’s nimble). The ONLY thing that I can say against Longines is their odd numbered lug widths. I want to put it on rubber when swimming (yes, I wear my watches in the water), or on a NATO for day to day. I’m not about to rebuy odd width straps. Seriously, that one aspect prevents me from getting a Zulu Time.
@@cedarcanoe true but they occupy a totally different market tier. Longines needs to give you no reason to not buy them. And, in my opinion, they’ve ALMOST done that.
It’s a fair point. Wierd lug widths are deal breakers for lots of people…
Aesthetically they can make sense but there’s just a practicality perspective that means a lot to some people.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts 👍👍👍
Longines are improving while having their own identity. Tudor’s quality is getting worse because Tudor doesn’t make anything and you get the poor man’s Rolex baggage with Tudor. They just put all the bits together that are made by various different companies and chunk in that movement that’s in lots other brands now. The “looks like a old Rolex “thing is also getting very boring now. Tudor need to scrap the Pro the 42mm Pelagos and the GMT. They are thick and unrefined while being plagued with quality issues. They should rework the Pelagos 39 too. It’s also had many quality issues 🤦🏻♂️
Give it time with tudor. My guess is the next phase will be thinner watches and thinner movements - The new bb41 indicates that the refinement cycle is beginning 😀
Thanks for contributing 😀
are you a biker too??
With pedals only 😂
Really hate those unnecessary stars on the longines...🤨
Yup! 😃
Agree 100%. Culturally, some things don't translate well, in this case from Europe to America. The stars are something I would expect on an Invicta, too blingy.
I don't understand your fascination with Tudor watches. They're ugly blocks with hideous hands on the dial. The ad messed you up. Longines is the equivalent of Rolls Royce. Top class. I wouldn't buy a Tudor even for half the price.
Fair enough. To each his own - which is the way it should be 😀
Personally, I think Grand Seiko is overrated. A watch that price should have a bracelet and clasp without problems; GS bracelets and clasps are very lacking. Longines is a complete package; great movement, great watch design, great bracelet and clasp.
However, I have "personal" gripes with this watch on design: 1.) lugs are to long, 2.) I wish the arabic numerals were larger.
Fair perspective - To each his own 😃😃
$4.3k usd for gold capped….
Sounds like something my dentist would say 😂
21mm bracelet and 5 stars : deal break 🙅♂️
Longines is better than Tudor. Tudor is an homage brand, owned by the same company who is copying its own 70 year old design.
Finally someone wrote the truth. Lol
I owned BB58 and tried on this Longines yesterday. Tudor wins all the way. Longines feels so light and almost fragile. Also not a fan of Longines design at all!
I prefer Longines’ overall design, the Tudor cases and dials are too simple and boring.
Having said that, I think the Tudor GMT movements are better, with a higher beat rate and being true GMT.
Longines definitely doesn’t get as much praise and credit these days, as they should - considering both heritage and current collection
😀😀😀
@@relojeroschat The Swatch Group owns both Longines and ETA.
21mm lugs for a 39mm case? WTF? Total deal killer for me. I definitely could have considered this otherwise. It's as if watch companies intentionally sabotage their own products.
Yup. It’s a deal breaker for many, especially enthusiasts 😀😀😀
Wow, you really hate this watch 😂 sucks for you it’s going for about $2k on the gray market. Tudor is twice as expensive lol. Not a fair comparison. Also, is any watch perfect? No.
I am very tempted by the Zulu Time, but my heart says Tudor. I believe Tudor has a bit better quality and reputation
never go for the compromise 😀😀
ETA doesn't matter at $800. ETA definitely matters at $3-4K. If you are paying $4K for a watch it should be in house.
Unless its way better than its big brother, then (design aside) it is nowhere near as good as a Tudor.
Sorry to burst your bubble guys.
It's a stunning watch (if you like the dimensions of the 39mm), but there is good reason the others cost more ;)
Sorry, but so many silly comparisons here.
Have you worn all these watches?
I have, the Longines are actually more refined and finished superior to Tudor.
those 5 starts on the dial look like amazon reviews. is there any good reason to have them? take them out, it cheapens the watch. just like those humungous numerals on the classic conquest. absolute nonsense
Looks like every other Rolex look alike brand.
I wouldn't go that far, but to each his own
Cheers 😀😀😀