Longines might be known for its iconic aviation watches and travel divers, celebrated through modern takes with vintage spirit, the Swiss luxury brand has an everyday sport model that might be its true flagship. Debuting in 1954, the Conquest celebrates its 70th anniversary this year and we’ve already seen some notable releases, including the ‘50s-era Conquest Central Power Reserve revival we talked about back in January. Yet, despite many of its heritage-inspired references that point to the watchmaker’s prolific past, the latest Conquest release comes in the way of a modern update on the tried and true classic, featuring a smaller case size and some new colors.

Why Go Smaller?

In terms of the case diameter for men’s watches, the range is typically 36mm and above for most standard timepieces. And while the lower end of that spectrum might turn away even the biggest fans of a specific reference, the sweet spot is different for everyone. Some prefer large, chunky divers well over 40mm, but those often weigh you down over the course of the day, especially if it sports a steel case and a thickness that comes from the back of the watch instead of the front.

Others maintain that 38mm is the perfect size, and they might be the most accurate, if there were any objectivity. 38mm is a nice, everyman size that will provide ideal wrist presence without offering any discomfort. The last thing you want after purchasing a watch you’re excited about is fatigue halfway through taking it for a spin. This is why these new 38mm Conquest references from Longines are so notable.

Longines Conquest 38mm Basics

Previously available in 41mm and 34mm case diameters, the Conquest retains the 10.9mm thickness of the larger models, which is a good thing for those not wanting to change too much of the on-wrist feel. And those interested will likely be pleased by the smaller lug-to-lug as well (from 49.1mm to the very wearable 46.8mm). 

Along with the reduced dimensions is a new sunray champagne dial colorway, taking the spot of the brown dial version. Four other colors, however, stay the same, including black, silver, blue, and green — all sunray. The five variants have also been given stainless steel bracelets.

Boasting 72 hours of power reserve, the in-house Caliber L888 automatic movement also returns, featuring the three-hand functionality with a date window at the bottom of the dial. The movement can be seen through the exhibition caseback.

Spec Sheet

Pricing & Availability

Not limited in edition size, the new Conquest Automatic 38mm is currently priced at $2,075. Head over to Longines’ website to learn more.