The Longines Launches The Ultra-Chron Carbon Is A Revolutionary First For The Brand

Longines recently unveiled the Ultra-Chron Carbon, showing an innovative use of carbon for the case, redefining strength and lightness in design while honoring the brand’s legacy of precision.

Inspired by the iconic 1968 Ultra-Chron Diver, this latest release combines advanced technology with a timeless aesthetic, creating a watch that appeals to collectors and modern watch enthusiasts alike. Certified as a chronometer by TIMELAB, the Ultra-Chron Carbon sets a new standard for accuracy and durability in high-performance watches.

The original Ultra-Chron Diver made waves in 1968 as the first diver’s watch equipped with a high-frequency movement. At the time, Longines had already established itself as a leader in this field, a reputation bolstered by its 1910 patent for high-frequency technology in sports timekeeping.

In 2022, the brand celebrated this heritage by launching a new Ultra-Chron model that honored the 1968 classic while incorporating cutting-edge advancements. Now, the Ultra-Chron Carbon takes this evolution a step further, introducing an unprecedented material to Longines’ catalog while maintaining the model’s signature focus on precision and innovation.

For the first time in its history, Longines has crafted a watch case entirely from carbon. This state-of-the-art material is prized for its exceptional durability and lightweight properties, qualities that make it a mainstay in advanced industries such as aeronautics. This connection to aeronautics aligns seamlessly with Longines’ longstanding history of innovation in aviation timekeeping.

The 43mm case of the Ultra-Chron Carbon is created using a meticulous process: unidirectional carbon fiber strips are combined with epoxy resin, molded, heated at high temperatures, compressed under intense pressure, and then cold-cut to achieve the final shape.

The result is a cushion-shaped case that not only pays homage to the original 1968 design but also showcases a unique visual texture. Each watch is truly one of a kind, as the random alignment of carbon fibers ensures that no two cases are identical.

In addition to its stunning aesthetic, the carbon case provides a significant advantage in wearability. Weighing less than 80 grams, including the strap, the Ultra-Chron Carbon is remarkably lightweight, making it an ideal choice for those who value both style and comfort.

The case also boasts water resistance up to 300 meters, ensuring that this timepiece can handle the demands of everyday wear and underwater adventures alike. Enhancing the watch’s durability, the bezel, case back, and screw-down crown are crafted from titanium, a material renowned for its strength and corrosion resistance.

The fixed bezel features an aluminum insert engraved with a scale marked in increments of ten, adding functionality to its bold design. The dial of the Ultra-Chron Carbon is equally impressive. Protected by a sapphire crystal with multi-layer anti-reflective treatment, the sand-blasted anthracite surface creates a subtle yet striking backdrop.

The chapter ring is adorned with 12 applied silver indexes, while the grey PVD-coated hour and minute hands are treated with Super-LumiNova® for enhanced legibility in low-light conditions. Together, these elements form a cohesive design that exudes sophistication and practicality.

At the heart of the Ultra-Chron Carbon is the exclusive Longines high-frequency caliber L.836.6, a testament to the brand’s commitment to precision. This movement operates at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour, or 5 Hertz, offering superior stability and accuracy compared to conventional mechanical movements.

This high-frequency design minimizes the impact of shocks and positional changes, making it ideal for active lifestyles. The caliber is equipped with a silicon balance spring and other advanced components, which provide enhanced resistance to magnetic fields—ten times greater than the ISO 764 standard. This ensures that the watch performs reliably even in environments where electromagnetic interference is prevalent.

What sets the Ultra-Chron Carbon apart from many other luxury watches is its full chronometer certification. Issued by TIMELAB, an independent Geneva-based watch testing laboratory, this certification guarantees the timepiece’s precision and reliability.

During the 15-day testing process, the entire watch—not just the movement—is evaluated under varying conditions, including three different temperatures (8°C, 23°C, and 38°C) and multiple positions. This rigorous assessment ensures that the Ultra-Chron Carbon meets the stringent ISO 3159 standard for chronometers, solidifying its status as a leader in high-performance timekeeping.

Comfort and practicality are also at the forefront of the Ultra-Chron Carbon’s design. The watch is paired with a black technical fabric strap that not only complements its modern aesthetic but also enhances its lightweight profile. Secured with a titanium buckle, the strap ensures a secure and comfortable fit for extended wear.

The entire package is presented in a bespoke black box, emphasizing the exclusivity and attention to detail that define Longines’ craftsmanship. The Ultra-Chron Carbon embodies the perfect balance of innovation, precision, and style. Its groundbreaking use of carbon fiber, combined with Longines’ heritage of high-frequency movements, makes it a standout addition to the Ultra-Chron collection.