WATCH & JEWELRY /
WATCH NEWS
February 12, 2025
Longines' new model is an ambitious creation utilizing carbon.
LONGINES | The Longines Ultra-Chron Carbon
Swiss watchmaking maison Longines has achieved a new innovation in its over 190-year history, announcing the "Ultra-Chron Carbon," its first-ever model to feature a carbon case. Equipped with Longines' proprietary high-frequency movement, it is drawing attention as an exceptional timepiece that combines precision and durability.
The Evolution and Innovation of the "Ultra-Chron"
The new "Ultra-Chron Carbon" is a model derived from the "Ultra-Chron Diver" that Longines introduced in 1968. As the original, it was the first Longines dive watch to feature a high-frequency movement, making a significant impact on the watch industry. Longines had already obtained a patent for high-frequency movements for sports timing in 1910, and its precision, in particular, was highly regarded.
In 2022, the "Ultra-Chron," a modern update of a past masterpiece, made its return. The "Ultra-Chron Carbon" is a further refined version of this model.
This creation extensively utilizes cutting-edge carbon materials, resulting in a model that is both lightweight and durable. Carbon is a material used in high-tech fields, and its adoption for a watch case is a new endeavor for Longines.
The "Ultra-Chron Carbon's" most significant feature is its adoption of Longines' proprietary high-frequency movement, the "Caliber L836.6." This is a highly precise mechanical movement operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour, or 5 Hz. High-frequency movements offer significantly improved stability against shocks and positional changes compared to conventional mechanical movements, ensuring superior accuracy. For over a century, Longines has been a pioneer in high-frequency technology, continuously evolving its expertise.
Furthermore, the movement incorporates a silicon balance spring, providing excellent antimagnetic performance. With magnetic resistance far exceeding the ISO 764 standard, it is less susceptible to external influences, thus ensuring more stable accuracy.
Additionally, it has received chronometer certification from the independent watch testing laboratory TIMELAB in Geneva, with its high precision proven through rigorous testing. To achieve chronometer certification, a watch must pass accuracy tests over 15 days, during which it is subjected to various positions and temperatures.
A notable design element is the distinctive cushion-shaped case, inspired by the 1968 model. This case is produced through a unique manufacturing process involving high-temperature and high-pressure compression of carbon fiber and epoxy resin, finished by cold cutting. This results in random fiber patterns within the case, lending each watch a unique detail.
With a case diameter of 43mm, it offers a substantial yet balanced presence. Thanks to the lightness of carbon, the overall weight of the watch is kept under 80 grams, ensuring comfortable wearability for extended periods.
The bezel is fixed and made of titanium, featuring an aluminum insert with markings every 10 units. The case back and screw-down crown are also titanium, contributing to the overall lightweight yet highly durable construction.
The dial features a sandblasted anthracite finish, complemented by silver-colored applied indices. Both the indices and the hour and minute hands are treated with Super-LumiNova® blue, ensuring excellent legibility even in low light conditions.
The strap is made of black technical fabric and fitted with a titanium buckle. It is presented in a custom black box.
The "Ultra-Chron Carbon" is not only aesthetically pleasing but also combines a high-frequency movement, exceptional durability, and high precision. It is truly a crystallization of Longines' technological innovation and design philosophy.
Ultra-Chron Carbon
Caliber | High-frequency (5 Hz) automatic mechanical movement, Longines exclusive Caliber L836.6
TIMELAB-certified chronometer (entire watch)
11½ lignes, 25 jewels, 36,000 vibrations/hour
Antimagnetic (ISO 764)
Power reserve | Approx. 52 hours
Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds
Case diameter | 43mm
Case thickness | 14mm
Weight (watch + bracelet) | Approx. 80g
Shape | Cushion-shaped carbon case, titanium-structured middle case
Sapphire crystal with multi-layer anti-reflective coating
Fixed titanium bezel with aluminum insert
Crown | Titanium screw-down crown
Case back | Titanium screw-down, engraved with Ultra-Chron logo
Dial | Sandblasted anthracite color, 12 silver-colored applied indices, Super-LumiNova® blue treatment, original Ultra-Chron logo
Water resistance | 30 bar
Bracelet and strap | Black technical fabric, titanium buckle