post

A definitive guide to men&#039;s premium fashion and lifestyle, as well as Hollywood celebrities.

DA MAN Magazine - Make Your Own Style!

The Longines Manufacture reflects the essence of the winged-hourglass brand, seamlessly merging its rich heritage with forward-thinking innovation in a celebration of timeless craft. Riga Ramadhan reports
<figure id="attachment_106336" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-106336" style="width: 1152px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-106336" src="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Factory20121-FILEminimizer.jpg" alt="" width="1152" height="768" srcset="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Factory20121-FILEminimizer.jpg 1152w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Factory20121-FILEminimizer-300x200.jpg 300w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Factory20121-FILEminimizer-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Factory20121-FILEminimizer-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-106336" class="wp-caption-text">The Longines manufacture</figcaption></figure>
This year, DA MAN Caliber once again embarked on a journey to the historic Longines Manufacture at Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Entering this site, which is nestled amid the serene landscape of the Jura mountains, feels like stepping into the living heart of Swiss watchmaking. This revered institution has been handcrafting timepieces for professionals across various fields—from explorers and navigators to pilots and athletes—since 1832. Longines has also stood as the official timekeeper for numerous sports, bringing precision to some of the world’s most prestigious events.
It was clear we weren’t merely visiting a manufacturing facility but immersing ourselves in a brand’s legacy from the moment we arrived. Each tick of the timeless craft in this sacred place resounds with the expertise and innovation cultivated over centuries. In a nutshell, we had the honor of undertaking a journey not just through the history of Longines but through the very soul of the winged-hourglass brand.
<h2>A Vantage Point</h2>
Our visit began with a warm welcome from Daniel Hug, Longines’ Head of Brand Heritage, in one of the stately boardrooms. There, he took us through the fascinating history of Longines, tracing its roots back to its founder, Auguste Agassiz. Initially, Agassiz established Longines as an assembly and point-of-sale outlet, with skilled watchmakers handcrafting timepieces in their homes. As demand and business grew, Longines expanded its presence across the Atlantic to the United States, establishing itself as a global name in precision watchmaking.
<figure id="attachment_106338" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-106338" style="width: 1026px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-106338" src="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer.jpg" alt="" width="1026" height="768" srcset="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer.jpg 1026w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer-300x225.jpg 300w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer-1024x767.jpg 1024w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer-768x575.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1026px) 100vw, 1026px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-106338" class="wp-caption-text">An artisan working on the caseback for a Flagship Heritage watch</figcaption></figure>
It was then under Agassiz’s nephew, Ernest Francillon, that Longines took a transformative leap. In 1867, Francillon built a central factory in Saint-Imier, on land known as “Es Longines,” where all aspects of production could be unified under one roof. The establishment of this new headquarters marked a historic turning point, becoming the permanent home of Compagnie des Montres Longines Francillon S.A. Today, this site not only houses the brand’s production facilities but also an extensive museum, a living testament to Longines’ remarkable heritage.
Unexpectedly, Daniel Hug began to delve into the fascinating history of Longines in Indonesia, sharing archival materials that revealed a surprising connection as early as 1912—predating Indonesia’s establishment as a nation. He presented a collection of vintage documents detailing how Longines had developed a robust presence throughout the archipelago. We learned about a wide network of Longines dealers from Ancona in Surabaya, East Java, Weltevreden in Jakarta, Goldenberg &amp; Co. in Medan, Sumatra—all of which were operating in 1912. These were followed by Engelke B. in Bandung in 1925 and Jaisslé D. &amp; Co. in Batavia, Jakarta, by 1938.
Discovering this historical network of Longines distributors that operated throughout Indonesia during this period brought a sense of awe. The winged hourglass brand’s enduring presence in Indonesia illustrated Longines’ profound global reach and influence, while also highlighting the brand’s timeless appeal.
<h2>A Thorough Procedure</h2>
Our journey, of course, was only beginning. After the captivating presentation, we ventured deeper into the heart of Longines, to the production department within the manufacture, which radiates calm and order. Longines’ production follows a highly structured sequence, organized meticulously from T0 to T4.
At T0, the focus is on crafting basic components. T1 involves assembling these parts into the precise movements that bring each watch to life. In T2, dials and hands are carefully installed, and movements are cased. T3 is dedicated to attaching the bracelets or straps, while T4 covers the critical documentation and the final “contrôle” phase, a meticulous inspection process conducted with a sense of reverence. In this manufacture, “contrôle” signifies far more than quality control; it is a ritual that highlights Longines’ unwavering dedication to precision and excellence in every piece they produce.
<figure id="attachment_106342" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-106342" style="width: 2560px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-106342" src="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1523902960-MikaelaShiffrinLongines9-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="2560" height="1709" srcset="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1523902960-MikaelaShiffrinLongines9-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1523902960-MikaelaShiffrinLongines9-300x200.jpg 300w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1523902960-MikaelaShiffrinLongines9-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1523902960-MikaelaShiffrinLongines9-768x513.jpg 768w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1523902960-MikaelaShiffrinLongines9-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1523902960-MikaelaShiffrinLongines9-2048x1367.jpg 2048w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1523902960-MikaelaShiffrinLongines9-1568x1047.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-106342" class="wp-caption-text">Brand ambassadors Mikaela Shiffrin during her visit to Saint-Imier</figcaption></figure>
In these precisely controlled spaces, watchmakers work with quiet focus, fully dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and precision. Dust is their sworn enemy, and each worker dons a lab coat and overshoes to guard against even the smallest contaminant. The atmosphere is one of intense concentration as they check every function meticulously, ensuring the hands align with pinpoint accuracy and inspecting each watch for dust or flaws.
Following each production phase, the timepieces are subjected to thorough inspection before progressing to the next step. Every detail is recorded into Longines’ advanced computerized production system. Remarkably, each Longines watch produced since 1867 bears a distinct serial number that references its unique specifications—movement type, material, case design and bracelet or strap. After these rigorous checks, the watches are labeled, placed carefully with guarantee cards and relevant documentation, and prepared for their retail packaging.
<h2>A Special Squad</h2>
Another noteworthy stop on our visit was the customer service department, a specialized area dedicated to the service and restoration of Longines watches from all over the globe. This department is thoughtfully divided into two sections: One is devoted to modern timepieces while the other is a heritage-focused workshop reserved for vintage and historically significant models.
<figure id="attachment_106341" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-106341" style="width: 2560px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-106341" src="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LonginesWatch18312-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="2560" height="1709" srcset="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LonginesWatch18312-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LonginesWatch18312-300x200.jpg 300w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LonginesWatch18312-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LonginesWatch18312-768x513.jpg 768w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LonginesWatch18312-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LonginesWatch18312-2048x1367.jpg 2048w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LonginesWatch18312-1568x1047.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-106341" class="wp-caption-text">Longines’ watchmaker</figcaption></figure>
Within the heritage workshop, watchmakers tackle repairs and restorations beyond the scope of the main service area. Equipped not only with standard tools but also advanced machinery, this workshop has a dedicated machine room that can recreate missing or damaged parts to exact specifications. This unique setup ensures that any Longines mechanical watch, no matter its age, can be meticulously restored.
Adding to this capability, the heritage stockroom houses original components that date back to the 19th century, reflecting the uninterrupted legacy of watchmaking at Longines’ Saint-Imier site. The team also goes to great lengths to source rare vintage parts globally, reinforcing Longines’ commitment to preserving every watch’s authenticity and honoring its historical value.
<figure id="attachment_106337" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-106337" style="width: 1024px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-106337" src="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18790206_Boissonnas-1911-atelier-2-R1-FILEminimizer.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="775" srcset="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18790206_Boissonnas-1911-atelier-2-R1-FILEminimizer.jpg 1024w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18790206_Boissonnas-1911-atelier-2-R1-FILEminimizer-300x227.jpg 300w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/18790206_Boissonnas-1911-atelier-2-R1-FILEminimizer-768x581.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-106337" class="wp-caption-text">Inside the brand’s atelier in the early 1900s</figcaption></figure>
For recently made watches, the servicing process begins by photographing the timepiece on arrival and documenting its condition for a detailed assessment. Specialists then evaluate the necessary repairs and check the inventory to ensure that all required parts are available. If specific parts aren’t readily accessible due to the age or rarity of the watch, the piece is sent to the heritage workshop, where the aforementioned watchmakers address these unique cases.
Once an estimate is compiled and approved by the customer, the servicing begins with a thorough ultrasound treatment. The movement then undergoes an intricate process: it is disassembled, meticulously cleaned, reassembled and oiled to restore its optimal function. During this stage, any damaged or worn parts are replaced to ensure the watch returns to its original performance.
<h2>A Transformative Journey</h2>
As the journey across the Longines Manufacture came to an end, we took with us more than just memories; we carried a profound appreciation for the essence that makes Longines more than just a brand. Beyond its rich heritage, there was a palpable forward momentum within the manufacture, seamlessly bridging the past with the promise of tomorrow.
As we explored the intricate processes involved in creating Longines timepieces we gained an intense admiration for the brand’s craftsmanship, dedication and artistry. Every element of its watchmaking process—from the assembly of contemporary timepieces to the intricate restoration of vintage models—speaks volumes of Longines’ resolute pursuit of excellence.
<figure id="attachment_106338" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-106338" style="width: 1026px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-106338" src="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer.jpg" alt="" width="1026" height="768" srcset="https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer.jpg 1026w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer-300x225.jpg 300w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer-1024x767.jpg 1024w, https://backend.daman.co.id/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Flagship_Heritage_L48154782_PR_300dpi_sRGB_986x738cm_DB_medallion-FILEminimizer-768x575.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1026px) 100vw, 1026px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-106338" class="wp-caption-text">An artisan working on the caseback for a Flagship Heritage watch</figcaption></figure>
In this historic setting, time itself is treated not merely as a measurement but as something to be crafted, cherished and celebrated. Here, each watch reflects a harmonious blend of legacy and progress, carrying the dual spirit of heritage and innovation. The winged hourglass emblem stands as a symbol of Longines’ steadfast guardianship of tradition while it also welcomes the future.
In the end, it’s safe to say Longines has achieved more than simply crafting watches—it has created enduring legacies. This visit to the sacred place where Longines has crafted this legacy since 1832 was more than a passage through history; it was an immersion into a world where artistry and precision converge, leaving a lasting impression of time measured not just in hours, but in heritage, craftsmanship and everything in between.
TEXT Riga Ramadhan

Memoirs from a visit to the Longines Manufacture in Saint-Imier

DAMAN Caliber 2024,

Manufacture Longines,

riga ramadhan,

Special Report