In the aviation world, Zulu Time is lingo for coordinated universal time, or Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the standard by which all other time zones are measured—making it a fitting name for one of the most exciting new watches for adventurers everywhere.
In March, Swiss watchmaker Longines released the updated Longines Spirit Zulu Time, a mechanical wristwatch that blends an exclusive new movement with meticulous finishes to help travelers stay on track whatever time zone they explore. Based on the original dual-time zone watch first launched by Longines in 1925, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time offers unparalleled precision and a traditional pilot’s watch aesthetic. The watch’s new movement enables a triple time zone functionality, helping modern pioneers cross the world in style—and on time.
Inside the Spirit Zulu Time’s Technology
The Longines Spirit Zulu Time wristwatch blends old and new, with a classic look and unparalleled craftsmanship. Inside the watch, the timezone display is powered by a new Longines in-house calibre with a silicon balance-spring. This spring is important. Drawing on centuries of watchmaking expertise, Longines crafted a silicon balance-spring that is light, corrosion-resistant, and unaffected by normal temperature variations and magnetic fields. These unique characteristics give the watch an unparalleled foundation of precision and longevity.
From there, the mechanical artistry extends across the watch. The local 12-hour hand can be adjusted independently of the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) indicator, while an additional two time zones can be tracked using a 24-hour hand, creating a globe-covering display. The timepiece has a power reserve of 72 hours and the new movement is certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute, earning its chronometer status. Overall, the innovative technology inside the Longines Spirit Zulu Time is worthy of the five stars stamped on its dial, a guarantee for a movement of the highest quality.
A Smart Look to the Future
Longines helped develop some of the first GMT watches, so it’s only natural that the new Longines Spirit Zulu Time nods to both the past and future. The wristwatch, in a size 42mm case, features the brand’s iconic winged logo on its sleek display, lending a classic look to the minimalist dial, which is available in black matt, sandblasted anthracite, and sunray blue colorways. In addition, the timeless simplicity is enhanced by a bidirectional rotating bezel with a colored ceramic insert (available in black, green, or blue). The date window is centered at the six o’clock position, and the hands and numerals are luminescent, allowing wearers to scan the time no matter their surroundings. The 42mm steel case has an interchangeable stainless steel or leather (in brown, beige, or blue) strap. Even better, the straps have a folding clasp fitted with a new micro-adjustment system, ensuring maximum comfort and a perfect fit.
Ultimately, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time is perhaps the most impressive addition yet to this storied collection, a modern-day “cockpit clock” upon which all other pilot’s watches will be measured.
This story was produced by WIRED Brand Lab for Longines.
