Longines Introduces the Heritage Classic “Sector” Dial

Another authentic, well-priced remake.

Longines continues its streak of solidly made and eminently affordable vintage remakes with the Heritage Classic featuring a “sector” dial. The segmented dial design revisits a style, sometimes known as a “scientific” dial, that’s currently popular, one that has been done by brands as diverse as Habring², Jaeger-LeCoultre and Laurent Ferrier.

The sector dial was fairly common in the first half of the 20th century, and unlike most other companies doing remakes, Longines actually did produce such watches back in the day. According to Longines, the Heritage Classic is modelled on a watch from 1934 that’s in the company museum.

As with the original, the sector dial on the remake is two-tone, with the chapter ring for the hour markers having a concentric brushed finish, while the central portion is finely grained. The markings are all printed, while the hands are blued steel.

The Heritage Classic (left) and its 1934 inspiration

The modern day remake is a faithful approximation of the original, right down to the typography for the Longines logo. It’s correctly proportioned as well, with a steel case that’s larger than the original but not too large, measuring 38.5mm in diameter and 10mm high, including the domed, “box glass” sapphire crystal.

And because the case is matched with an appropriately sized movement that’s 25.6mm (or 11 1/1”’) wide, the subsidiary seconds does not sit too close to the centre of the dial, as is the case with large cases and small movements.

longines Heritage Classic Sector Dial 4

The L893 movement inside is an ETA A31.L91, which is actually that ETA 2892 that’s been upgraded with an extended power reserve that’s in part due to a reduced beat rate and silicon hairspring. Another variant of the calibre is found in the recently launched Master Collection Moonphase.

The Heritage Classic is available with either a blue or black calfskin strap. Both versions are accompanied by an extra “denim effect”, NATO style leather strap, as well as a strap removal tool.

longines Heritage Classic Sector Dial 1