WATCH & JEWELRY /
FEATURES
April 6, 2026
A commitment to not raising prices: The new generation of Longines' HydroConquest embodies the true meaning of accessible luxury.
LONGINES | HydroConquest
Many Swiss luxury watch brands are gradually increasing their prices. Amidst this trend, Longines continues to choose a path of steadily enhancing quality while maintaining stable pricing. The new generation of the "HydroConquest," released in March 2026, is a timepiece that embodies this philosophy. Furthermore, the new CEO at the helm of the brand is clearly reaffirming its position of accessible luxury.
Text by TSUCHIDA Takashi
The Guardian of "Longines' Essence" Takes the Helm
In 2025, Longines appointed a new CEO. What's noteworthy is their background. Instead of an external hire from another brand or industry, the new leader has a long tenure within Longines itself. In the watch industry, it's not uncommon for new management to alter a brand's character in the name of "innovation." However, this appointment suggests a direction towards inheriting and deepening the Longines spirit.
With the new CEO in place, the brand reiterates its future strategy:
"Our position is clear. With a benchmark up to the 500,000 yen range, we aim to establish a true presence within the accessible luxury segment below that price point."
Achieving high quality and functionality at an accessible price—this is the philosophy Longines has cultivated since its founding. The brand, under its new CEO, has redefined this ethos in its own words. It's a choice to preserve the rare value of "truly usable accessible luxury watches" by keeping prices down, rather than creating prestige through price increases.
The pricing of this new "HydroConquest" exemplifies that statement. It is ¥324,500 (tax included) in Japanese yen. Even the model with the Milanese mesh bracelet is priced at ¥343,200 (tax included). While prices have indeed risen over the years since its debut in 2007 at under ¥100,000, this reflects an honest response to accumulated quality improvements, such as updated movements, advanced materials, and refined finishing. As competing brands in the same category approach ¥500,000 or ¥600,000, the fact that the price range remains in the ¥300,000s is significant.
The Quality of Innovation: The 2026 Model
Since its debut in 2007, the "HydroConquest" has been favored as a reliable water-resistant and durable watch for all daily activities. Its origins trace back to 1954. The "Conquest," Longines' first collection trademarked in Switzerland, evolved over half a century into the "HydroConquest," imbued with high water resistance and modern aesthetics. An update in 2018 introduced a ceramic bezel, and in 2023, a GMT function was added, establishing a new visual identity. Now, in 2026, further refinement has been achieved.
The watch is powered by Longines' exclusive Caliber L888.5, an automatic mechanical movement featuring a silicon balance spring and a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Its anti-magnetic properties significantly exceed ISO764 standards, ensuring accuracy is not compromised even in today's environment surrounded by smartphones and electronic devices. Water resistance is rated at 30 bar. A screw-down crown and a screw-down case back ensure a robust waterproof structure, while the celestial map engraved on the case back pays homage to Longines' heritage of crafting instruments for explorers and adventurers.
Design updates are also noteworthy. A particular highlight of this collection is the introduction of the Milanese mesh bracelet for the "HydroConquest" line. Crafted from high-quality stainless steel with polished sides and a brushed finish throughout, its tapered mesh structure offers excellent breathability and comfortable wear. The bracelet length is adjusted using improved short links, allowing for easy sizing with tools. Additionally, the double safety folding clasp features a four-step micro-adjustment mechanism for fine-tuning the fit.
While retaining a sporty, diver's watch aesthetic, it achieves a lightness and refinement distinct from solid metal bracelets. The case is available in two sizes: 39mm and 42mm. The 39mm option, which sits elegantly on Japanese wrists, holds significant importance when choosing a watch for daily wear.
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