Longines Collector's Corner Offers Restored Vintage Watches at Accessible Prices
Longines Makes Vintage Collecting Accessible with Collector's Corner
While many Certified Pre-Owned programmes focus on the high-end luxury segment, Longines has taken a different approach with its Collector's Corner initiative. Launched in conjunction with the opening of the brand's new Boutique Rue du Rhône in Geneva, the programme offers beautifully restored vintage watches at prices that remain coherent with the brand's current collections.
According to Monochrome Watches, the first watches in the Collector's Corner selection retail between CHF 2,500 and CHF 12,500 — remarkably accessible price points for certified, manufacturer-restored vintage timepieces.
Restoration Standards and Heritage Expertise
All watches offered through the Longines Collector's Corner are sourced, restored, and certified by the brand's heritage atelier. Key details of the programme include:
- Watches originally manufactured over 30 years ago
- All fitted with in-house Longines movements
- Restored using original components from Longines' extensive stock
- Two-year warranty on all restoration work
- In-house capability to reproduce parts when necessary
This restoration capability stems from Longines' exceptionally rich heritage and the brand's commitment to maintaining an inventory of original components spanning decades of production.
Notable Pieces from the Initial Selection
The debut collection features several remarkable vintage timepieces that showcase Longines' historical expertise:
| Model | Year | Case Size | Movement | Price (CHF) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flyback Chronograph 30CH | 1965 | 38mm | Hand-wound cal. 30CH | 12,250 |
| Pilot's Watch Majetek | 1938 | 40mm | Hand-wound cal. 15.94 | 6,150 |
| Flagship Rose Gold | 1958 | 35mm | Hand-wound cal. 30L | 3,895 |
| Super Water-Resistant Diver Chrono | 1969 | 43mm | Hand-wound cal. 30CH | 6,990 |
| Rectangular Art Deco | 1937 | 19x29mm | Hand-wound cal. 25.173 | 3,250 |
The Flyback Chronograph 30CH, introduced in 1947 as successor to the legendary calibre 13ZN, stands out as a highlight. This hand-wound column-wheel chronograph features a silvered dial with blue tachymeter and red telemeter scales in a classic 38mm steel case.
A Different Approach to Vintage CPO
Unlike most brand-backed CPO programmes that tap the high-end luxury segment, Longines' Collector's Corner offers genuine value. The brand's heritage, combined with its ability to maintain and reproduce original parts, positions it uniquely in the certified vintage market. Collectors can acquire historically significant timepieces with manufacturer backing at price points that make vintage collecting genuinely accessible.
For those new to vintage watch collecting, understanding movement calibres and production eras is essential. Visit our guide to vintage watch movements to learn about the calibres that define different periods of watchmaking history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are Longines Collector's Corner watches more affordable than other CPO programmes?
A: Longines positions its vintage offerings at price points coherent with its current collections, and the brand's extensive parts inventory allows restoration without the high costs other brands face in sourcing vintage components.
Q: Are the watches from the Collector's Corner covered by a warranty?
A: Yes, all watches come with a two-year warranty covering the restoration work performed by Longines' heritage atelier.
Q: Can I purchase Collector's Corner watches online?
A: The watches are presented online but must be purchased through the Longines Boutique at 40 Rue du Rhône in Geneva.
Source: According to Monochrome Watches (October 28, 2021)
Learn more about the history of pilot's watches and their role in aviation in our comprehensive pilot watch history guide.