Established in 1832 in Saint-Imier, Swiss watchmaker Longines has long balanced precision, sport, and elegance with quiet authority. From pioneering timing instruments in global sports to crafting refined everyday timepieces, the brand’s philosophy has always rested on continuity rather than disruption. That same measured approach defines the newly redesigned HydroConquest collection—an evolution that respects its maritime roots while responding to the expectations of a modern, design-conscious wearer.
The brand’s Conquest line, first trademarked in 1954, pioneered the concept of the versatile everyday watch. More than 50 years later, Longines debuted the HydroConquest collection in 2007 to offer a robust sporting companion capable of venturing into demanding environments.
Nearly two decades later, the 2026 redesign refines every aspect of the watch without compromising its identity. The Maison has redesigned the HydroConquest to balance its proven performance with contemporary proportions, ensuring it transitions seamlessly from active pursuits to elegant occasions.
The new generation embraces bold refinement, available in versatile 39 mm and 42 mm stainless steel cases. Enthusiasts can select from four striking dial variations: polished lacquered finishes in classic black, vibrant green, and deep blue, alongside a distinctive frosted-blue sunray variant. These are framed by newly reworked, unidirectional rotating ceramic bezels in five attractive shades, including slate grey and luminous blue. A significant highlight is the newly introduced Milanese mesh bracelet, seen on three additional references. Featuring a full-brushed finish and tapered stainless steel mesh, this bracelet offers exceptional breathability and incorporates a micro-adjustment clasp for personalised comfort.
Catering to discerning collectors, Longines also unveils two exclusive references in 39 mm and 42 mm sizes, available exclusively through their Corporate Boutiques, Shop in Shops, and the Longines e-commerce platform. These models showcase a captivating frosted-blue dial that provides a marine-inspired interpretation of water through its unique sunray texture. Paired with dark-blue ceramic bezels, they are secured by elegant stainless steel bracelets with micro-adjustable, double-folding safety clasps. While visually distinct, these exclusive timepieces share the core collection’s robust technical excellence and sporty elegance.
Beneath the surface, every new HydroConquest model shares identical, state-of-the-art technical specifications. At the heart of these watches beats the exclusive Longines self-winding mechanical calibre L888.5. Outfitted with a silicon balance-spring, this movement delivers a power reserve of up to 72 hours and boasts magnetic resistance 10 times greater than ISO 764 standards.
The dials feature rhodium-plated hands and 11 applied indices, all treated with Super-LumiNova® for exceptional legibility, complemented by a date aperture at 3 o’clock. Encased beneath sapphire crystal with multi-layer anti-reflective coating, the timepieces feature screw-in crowns and screw-down case backs engraved with a planisphere, ensuring water resistance up to 30 bar (300 metres). Furthermore, both the H-link and Milanese bracelets feature double-folding safety clasps with a push-piece opening mechanism and micro-adjustment systems.
The spirit of this reinvented collection is perfectly embodied by celebrated actor and producer Henry Cavill, who stars in the compelling launch campaign filmed on the dramatic volcanic shores of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain. Renowned for his remarkably versatile cinematic roles, from “Superman” to his passionate work on the “Warhammer 40,000” adaptation, Cavill became Longines Ambassador of Elegance in 2024.
His sophistication, genuine warmth, and multifaceted dedication resonate deeply with the brand’s ethos of understated luxury and timeless poise. In the stunning campaign imagery, where the interplay of land and sea is punctuated by powerful horses symbolising grace, Cavill effortlessly mirrors the duality, freedom, and refined character at the very heart of the new HydroConquest.
All in all, the latest iterations of the HydroConquest reflect Longines’ broader philosophy that genuine innovation emerges from respecting heritage while embracing contemporary needs.
