Longines
From a Family Business to a Global Brand
Auguste Agassiz (1809-1877) teamed up with fellow watchmakers in 1832 to create a watchmaking workshop in the Swiss village of Saint-Imier. At that time, components were produced in the homes of watchmakers, before being assembled at the workshop.
In 1852, his nephew, Ernest Francillon took over the operations of the workshop. A man of vision, he decided to build-up a factory. Not only did he bring all the talented artisans together under one roof, he also established a mechanized production system to ensure the highest quality and precision.
The Longines Factory
1857
Built on a field known locally as ""Es Longines"", Francillon decided to keep this name for the company and created the Longines brand.
The Longines factory was inaugurated in 1867 and has continued its operations at the same place ever since.
The Oldest Trademark In Watchmaking
Francillon proved to be a pioneer in protecting his products against counterfeits. He ensured that all timepieces leaving the factory were engraved with a serial number, the trade name Longines and its winged hourglass symbol.
As soon as a Swiss law protecting trademarks was introduced in 1880, Francillon registered his. In 1889, he took the opportunity to present the Longines name and winged hourglass at the newly formed Federal Office of Intellectual Property (OFPI). When the new United International Bureaux, forerunner of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) was established, he extended his trademark to cover international markets.
FOUNDED
1832HEADQUARTERS
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longines.comLongines is a renowned Swiss luxury watch brand that has been crafting timepieces for over 185 years. Established in 1832, Longines is known for its precision, innovation, and tradition. Every watch is built with the finest materials and exceptional attention to detail. With a history deeply rooted in sports timekeeping, aviation, and exploration, Longines watches are admired for their elegant and timeless designs. The brand has continuously evolved and expanded its range of watches, making it a top choice for watch enthusiasts around the world.
1832
Longines is founded by Auguste Agassiz in Saint-Imier, Switzerland.
1867
Longines begins producing chronographs, which quickly become a signature product for the brand.
1912
Longines introduces its first wristwatch with a tonneau-shaped case.
1927
Longines becomes a sponsor and official timekeeper of the International Aviation Federation, cementing its reputation for precision timekeeping.
1954
Longines introduces the Conquest collection, a line of sports watches with a focus on accuracy and durability.
1967
Longines launches the Ultra-Chron, a high-frequency movement that was among the most accurate of its time.
1984
Longines introduces the Dolce Vita collection, featuring elegant, rectangular-shaped cases.
2017
Longines celebrates its 185th anniversary, marking more than a century and a half of watchmaking excellence.
2019
Longines releases the HydroConquest collection, featuring sporty, dive-style watches with modern designs and high-performance movements.
FOUNDED
1832
SERVICES CENTER
🇨🇦 Swatch Group Canada Ltd.
Toronto
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Montreal
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Vancouver (Time & Gold)
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