Everyone seems to be acquainted with Zenith’s high-frequency El Primero computerized chronograph motion, launched in 1969. Nonetheless, not all people is acquainted with the world’s first high-frequency diver. The laurels, on this case, go to Longines with its 1968 Extremely-Chron ref. 7970 with a 5Hz frequency and a depth ranking of 200m. Reintroduced in 2022, the Extremely-Chron returns in 2025 in a carbon fibre case.
No stranger to high-frequency calibres, in 1914, Longines produced a 5Hz handheld stopwatch with a split-seconds hand able to measuring 1/10th of a second. In 1916, it unveiled its 50Hz, 1/100th of a second stopwatch. Ten years earlier than Zenith’s El Primero, Longines produced the primary wristwatch with a 5Hz motion (calibre 360) to compete in observatory chronometry competitions (it was guide winding). In 1968, Longines launched its 5Hz calibre 431 inside a diver’s watch, changing the Extremely-Chron into the world’s first high-frequency diver with an accuracy of 1 minute per thirty days. In case you’d like a extra in-depth evaluation, don’t miss Brice’s coverage here.
In 2022, Longines rescued the 1968 Ultra-Chron, capturing its retro fashion however with up to date proportions and a contemporary motion. Sporting a cushion-shaped case with a 43mm diameter and 14mm thickness, the newest Extremely-Chron marks Longines’ first expertise with carbon, giving the watch a stealthier, darker vibe.
Carbon is broadly utilized in aeronautics, and the Extremely-Chron case is constructed from strips of unidirectional carbon fibre and epoxy resin. The supplies are positioned in a mould, heated to a excessive temperature, compressed beneath excessive strain and chilly minimize to copy the cushion-shaped case of the Extremely-Chron. The random patterns produced by the carbon fibres make every case distinctive and contribute to the featherlight 80g weight of the watch (together with the strap).
Not like the sooner version with a unidirectional rotating bezel with a sapphire insert and luminescent markings, this mannequin has a set titanium bezel with a matte black aluminium insert and silver numerals. It’s a disgrace that the bezel is fastened as a result of it deprives the dive watch of a key perform. The titanium crown and caseback are screwed-down to make sure the 300m water-resistance.
The sandblasted anthracite dial has utilized rectangular indices with a central strip of Tremendous-LumiNova, matching that utilized to the gray PVD rectangular hour and minute arms. Different variations right here regard the all-important minutes hand that’s not picked out in a unique color and the applying of SLN on all of the indices. Utilized above the 6 o’clock marker is the unique high-frequency Extremely-Chron brand. Underscoring its classic provenance, the dial is protected by a box-shaped sapphire crystal.
Hidden beneath the sealed caseback is calibre L836.6, primarily based on a closely modified ETA with a frequency of 5Hz, an anti-magnetic silicon stability spring and a 52-hour energy reserve. Categorized as a chronometer following ISO 3159 requirements, the certification is offered by TimeLab.
The Extremely-Chron Carbon comes with a black technical material strap and a titanium buckle. It retails for USD 4,900. Extra info at Longines.com.
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