Longines’ latest release is informed by its storied history, with the Swiss watch manufacturer delving into the archives for inspiration. Combining past with present, the Longines Pilot Majetek fuses the spirit of adventure and underlying aesthetic codes of its predecessor with contemporary innovation.
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First released in 1935, the original Longines Pilot Majetek was designed with aviators in mind. Distinguishable by its curved cushion case and legible hour markers, the popularity of the Longines Pilot Majetek quickly spread far beyond the aviation community, with the watch favoured by those desirous of a robust, precise, and easy-to-read timepiece.
The technical and ergonomic features of the new Longines Pilot Majetek have been overhauled to cater to contemporary consumers and current trends, however, it still exudes major retro energy, with the aesthetic of the original retained. The 43mm case — 3mm larger than the 1935 version — features rounder lugs and is designed with wearer comfort in mind. Meanwhile, the bi-directional fluted bezel and oversized small seconds sundial at 6 o’clock are direct reminders of the original function of the pilot’s watch.
The matte black dial continues to be designed with legibility in mind; the large white Arabic hour markers are coated in SuperLumiNova, while minutes are denoted by the railway track and indicated by the rhodium-tipped baton hands that move around the dial. A fluorescent mobile triangle marker moves independently to the sapphire crystal, whereas in the 1935 version, the bezel and crystal with the marker rotated as a single unit.
On the inside, contemporary technical prowess reigns supreme. The Longines Pilot Majetek is powered by the in-house L893.6 calibre, which is equipped with a magnetically resistant silicon balance spring and boasts 72 hours of power reserve. The timepiece is presented on a two-stitch strap, available in either brown or green leather. There’s also the option for a NATO-style strap crafted from recycled materials.
The Pilot Majetek is priced at $5755AUD and is available via the Longines webstore.
Words by Theo Rosen
