The Longines Spirit 37mm: New Case Size, Same Classic Design
With so many new watches emerging each year, and so many materials, designs and complications to choose from, it can be easy to forget the simple pleasures of a classic steel three-hander. Free of chronograph subdials, diving bezels and other embellishments, these simple, versatile, durable timepieces are the foundation of many a watch wardrobe. At Longines, where classic design-meets-modern reliability is the order of the day, the Spirit 37mm is their latest and best offering to fit that bill.
Previously available in 42mm and 40mm case sizes, with a choice of steel or titanium case and various dial and strap options, the Spirit is the kind of watch that you can easily wear every day and not get tired of. If, that is, you like the way a 40 or 42mm watch fits. If not, you’d be out of luck — until now, that is. This month Longines is rounding out the Spirit collection with three new variants in 37mm cases, making the Spirit a good choice for pretty much anyone in search of a good all-around three-hand steel sports watch.
It’s worth making a note here for those that are used to making decisions based on specs alone. The Spirit case profile is on the flatter side, and relatively long from lug-to-lug. This 37mm reference has the wrist presence of something a touch larger, so if you’re used to wearing watches that are over 40mm, this new smaller reference will still be worth trying on.
Colours and materials
The Spirit was previously available with a few nice choices of dials, including sunray blue and matte black, and a choice of metal bracelets, leather straps or textile straps for the titanium version. The 37 mm size builds on that variety with a handsome champagne sunray-brushed option, while keeping the original blue and black variants on offer as well. Strap-wise, you’ll have your choice of stainless steel, brown or leather, or a contrast-stitched blue leather version to match the blue sunray dial.
Love is in the details
The Longines Spirit is unique in its balancing of modern looks with classic details, and that’s as true of the 37mm version as any other. Most noticeable of its vintage details is the pronounced notched crown, a nod to Longines’ days as a maker of early aviation watches that also adds functionality. Where other Spirits have a date window at three o’clock, the newest version moves the date to 6 o’clock for an even more balanced aesthetic. Above that are the five appliqué stars found on every Spirit watch, a feature that in turn recalls a unique tradition in Longines workshops: the more stars (up to five), the more reliable its calibre.
A workhorse calibre
Speaking of the movement, the newest Longines Spirit is equipped with the same one as the 40 and 42mm models, the L888, a self-winding mechanical movement that’s been chronometer-certified by COSC. Made in Switzerland (as all Longines movements are) it features a silicon balance-spring and a 72-hour power reserve.
A complete package
Whether it’s your first Swiss luxury watch or one of many in your collection, the Longines Spirit is designed to have enough charisma to charm seasoned collectors, and enough versatility to appeal to someone looking for the perfect daily driver. The addition of a 37mm case only adds to this appeal — as does its extremely reasonable pricing — putting the Spirit within reach of pretty much anyone in search of a great three-hand steel sports watch.
Learn more about the Longines Spirit 37mm here.
