Longines Spirit ZULU Time, a Watch for Modern Adventurers

Longines is one of the ambassadors of longevity when it comes to wristwatches. A rich catalog of models has been coming out of their Swiss factory for almost two hundred years. A respectful portfolio, praised by horology experts and users alike, builds Longines' heritage marked by three major factors: Swiss craftsmanship, precision, and elegance.

Longines has been building its reputation by combining traditional watchmaking craft with modern innovation. Its total dedication to precision has led to it being an official timekeeper in leading sports events, with the Olympic Games being a pinnacle one. The company is also known for its pioneering contributions in the wristwatch department.

One of the groundbreaking models Longines produced in their two-century-long horology adventure is Zulu time, which came out in 1925. Approaching its 100th birthday, Longines decided to commemorate this milestone by introducing Longines Spirit ZULU Time (Model: L3.812.4.63.2) in 1922. To live up to such an infamous predecessor is a challenging task, and it comes as no surprise that Longines decided to go with a modernized GMT watch that combines functionality, elegance, and aviation inspiration.

Longines Spirit ZULU Time, L3.812.4.63.2 radiates an elevated earth tones vibe when paired with a MiLTAT Pam Collection, Orange French Crafted Barenia Leather Watch Strap

Design and Aesthetics of Longines Spirit ZULU Time

The first impression upon initial glance of the Spirit ZULU reissue is elegance. Then it shifts to masculine elegance, as the case is robust, measuring 42mm in diameter and 13.9mm in thickness. Pristinely polished and brushed finishes give the watch a refined yet bold appearance. They also provide an additional touch of class and ensure that Spirit ZULU is comfortable for prolonged daily wear.

The design of the dial is also exceptional. The aesthetics of the black sunray color, applied Arabic numerals with Super-LumiNova®, and the bi-directional rotating bezel with a green ceramic insert perfectly radiate the two essential natures of the Model: L3.812.4.63.2 —it's both a tool and a supreme elegance watch. Opting for such a color mix and design secures timeless elegance, ensures the perfect readability that a tool watch needs at all times, and achieves an ideal balance of ruggedness and sophistication.

Talking about utter elegance, masculinity, and class: Longines ZULU Time L3.812.4.63.2, paired with a MiLTAT Pam Collection, Vintage Brown Horween Chromexcel Leather Watch Strap for longevity and ultimate comfort, too

Technical Features of Spirit ZULU Time Model: L3.812.4.63.2

New Spirit ZULU Time is a genuine GMT watch. That means the central GMT hand is adjusted independently from the hour hand, which is a rare feature for a Swiss-made watch at that price level. The arrow tip of the GMT hand is luminous and gilt polished in Model: L3.812.4.63.2, to match the color of the hour and minute hands and secure perfect visibility when pointing to reference time on the bezel’s 24-hour scale. A convenient feature for frequent travelers.

The force behind its pristine accuracy is the automatic Caliber L844.4, a COSC Certified Chronometer that boasts a 72-hour power reserve - a favored feature for those who value reliability during travel or prolonged wear. Caliber L844.4 is exclusively produced for Longines by ETA, and comes with a special feature, a friction-resistant silicon balance spring that enhances accuracy. The silicon balance and two other major components of this Caliber are made of antimagnetic material, which ensures the Caliber meets the ISO764 standard for resistance to magnetic fields from 600 to 800 gauss. Finally, the new Spirit ZULU Time is 100m water resistant, which makes it versatile for various activities, from everyday use to light outdoor adventures.

For all casual, outdoor, and semi-formal settings alike, Longines Spirit ZULU Time fits perfectly in place when it is matched with a 22mm Aviator Style Khaki Canvas Quick Release Watch Strap

Heritage and Legacy of the Longines Spirit collection

There's a rich historical connection between Longines and aviation and pioneering explorers. Their work and achievements grew side by side over the years, and Longines watches were both witnesses and participants in some of the most groundbreaking events in the history of aviation. The first woman to fly solo over the Atlantic in her infamous flight in 1932, Amelia Earhart, wore a Longines watch, Charles Lindbergh, upon his non-stop flight over the Atlantic in 1927, went on to Longines to create the iconic Hour Angle watch with Longins, Paul-Émile Victor used Longines watches on his expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic in the 1940s, and Dieudonne Costes and Maurice Bellonte created pilot history by completing a 35,652 miles around-the-world flight using a LONGINES, to name just a few groundbreaking events. 

ZULU time also has a special place in Longines' aviation-horology connection. The original watch from the Longines ZULU time family came out in 1925, as one of the first wristwatches to use a GMT system. That's where the reference stems from, since Zulu is the military and aviation standard for GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). Over the course of one century, Longines released several variants of the original ZULU time watch, each with its own signature features. All stayed true to their military and aviation references, enriching ZULU Time heritage with new innovations and continuing the iconic legacy at the same time.

QR 22mm Stainless Steel Metabind II (Pull-Twist) Watch Strap with a Brushed Baton Diver Clasp  facilitates an easy length customization and smoothly adds to the prominent masculinity of the Longines Spirit ZULU Time, L3.812.4.63.2

Target Audience and Lifestyle

So, who is the target audience for Longines Spirit ZULU Time (Model: L3.812.4.63.2)? Number one on the list are all modern adventurers who value precision, durability, and functional, timeless design. Shoulder to shoulder with them are all those who love a superbly crafted watch with a rich tradition and exquisite aesthetics.

When it comes to the lifestyle of the potential owner, there are practically no limitations since Model: L3.812.4.63.2 fits equally in place with military and civil aviation professionals, casual, and outdoor settings. This is made possible by its technical features, meticulous finish, supreme elegance, and chameleon-like nature when it comes to strap pairing.

Seamless extension of the mesmerizing green of Longines Spirit ZULU Time bezel when it is paired with a FKM Crafter Blue - CX03 Oliver Green Flexi-Curved Rubber Watch Strap

Longines Spirit ZULU Time (Model: L3.812.4.63.2) watch strap pairing versatility

The masculine appeal of the watch, along with its meticulous design, timeless elegance, impeccable finishing, and harmonious color choices, enables ample versatility in strap pairing. There are pairing options for practically any environment, formal, semi-formal, or entirely casual. The latter one particularly shines because we found that this watch, with its military style and green bezel, pairs easily with watch bands for smart casual weekend activities.

It works equally great in other settings mentioned above since it pairs easily with straps of varied material and style. Elegant leather straps enhance its formal appeal, making it suitable for even the most formal occasions. Stainless steel brings out its innate masculinity, while a rubber strap emphasizes its modern vibe, making Model: L3.812.4.63.2 an ideal addition to any casual environment.

Modern features and aesthetics of Longines Spirit ZULU Time L3.812.4.63.2 are even more in the spotlight when it is paired with a FKM Quick Release Grey Tropical-Style Pro Rubber Watch Strap

Longines Spirit ZULU Time Model: L3.812.4.63.2 is a jack of all trades for everyone who values a blend of tradition and modern innovation. It incorporates a rich, century-long heritage of pioneering aviation watch design and wearability versatility, functioning equally well as a functional tool and a fashion accessory.

Written by S.K., images by Toni