After having pioneered a high-frequency movement in the early 20th century, Longines applied the expertise to enhance the precision of a wristwatch, introduced in 1959.
The Ultra-Chron and its sister dive watch followed in the 1960s, as milestones in high-beat timepieces.
Longines celebrates the heritage with the new Ultra-Chron, which beats at 36,000 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of 52 hours, thanks to the self-winding mechanical calibre L836.6.
The accuracy is confirmed by the chronometer certification issued by TIMELAB, an independent testing laboratory located in Geneva.
The aesthetics is inspired by the cushion-shaped Ultra-Chron Diver, the first high-beat watch under water, from 1968.
Water resistant to 300m, the new model is housed in a 43mm steel case fitted with a unidirectional rotating bezel.
The black grained dial features a white minute track with alternating Super-LumiNova-coated batons and rhodium plated appliques. The distinctive red minute hand, like the hour hand, is also coated with luminescent material for optimal legibility.
The original logo appears on the dial as well as the caseback.
Matched with a leather strap or steel bracelet, the Longines Ultra-Chron is delivered in a special presentation box containing a black Nato strap made from recycled material.