Sporting a moon phase and retro design, the Flagship Heritage Moonphase was originally available only in sedate colours of cream and silver. Now the line grows to include dials in Havana beige, anthracite and green.

Unlike the recent Conquest Heritage, the Moonphase is not a vintage reproduction, rather it’s a blend of vintage and modern, with the bonus of a solid 18k gold medallion on the back portraying a caravel on a blue sea of grand feu enamel.

Initial thoughts

The new trio are essentially cosmetic expansions of the line, so they do not seem novel on paper, but they are a smartly conceived products. The traditional styling is preserved, but with dials in striking colours that are now much more lively. The earlier versions were arguably too plain, with the subdued colours seeming a bit flat.

The Flagship Heritage Moonphase is one of Longines’ more expensive models at US$3,050, but nonetheless is decent value considering the top-of-the-line ETA movement and solid-gold, hand-enamelled emblem on the back.

Calendar complications

Like most models in Longines’ vintage-based Heritage Classic collection, the Flagship Heritage Moonphase is compact by modern standards, but larger than the actual vintage originals. The stainless steel case is 38.5 mm in diameter and 12.4 mm in thickness. Simple in style, the case has a domed, polished bezel and short, angular lugs with polished chamfers along their edges.

Slightly domed to mimic a vintage watch, the dial is finished with a radial, sunburst brushing. The dial has double complications at six, with the moon phase and date located in the same sub-dial.

It’s offered in three colours: Havana beige (which is a rich brown), anthracite, or green. The anthracite grey dial stands out for having rose-gold plated hands and indices that add to the vintage feel.

Continuing a tradition that began with the vintage Flagship models, the Moonphase sports an 18k gold medallion on the case back, portraying a caravel sailing on a blue sea. The caravel is cast in relief, while the sea is traditional fired enamel – painted by hand, then fired in an oven, and finally lapped for a smooth surface.

The Moonphase is powered by the L899.5, which is derived from the ETA 2892 but upgraded in several ways, including with a silicon balance spring and extended, 72 hour power reserve.

Key facts and price

Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase
Ref. L4.815.4.62.2
Ref. L4.815.4.52.2
Ref. L4.815.4.02.2

Case diameter: 38.5 mm
Case height: 12.4 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 30 m

Movement: Cal. L899.5
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, and moon phase
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 25,200 beats per hour (3.5 Hz)
Power reserve: 72 hours

Strap: Alligator leather with pin buckle

Limited edition: No
Availability: Now at Longines boutiques and retailers
Price: US$3,050

For more, visit longines.com.