Longines, a famous Swiss watch brand, has just unveiled a new version of its Conquest collection. After having seduced watch lovers with a 41 mm version, Longines now offers a more compact 38 mm model, which subtly combines vintage and modern aesthetic codes. We had the chance to take in hand the five dial variations of this new Conquest 38 mm, and the least we can say is that it left an excellent impression on us!
A well-proportioned case
The 38mm diameter stainless steel case features vertical brushing on the top, while the bezel and sides feature a bright polished finish. At 3 o'clock, we find a signed screw-down crown, protected by profiled guards.
The steel bracelet, with its H-shaped links alternating between brushed and polished surfaces, matches perfectly with the finishes of the case. It is equipped with a push-button butterfly clasp, without a micro-adjustment system. However, half-links allow you to precisely adjust the bracelet to your wrist.
With its 38 mm diameter, 10.9 mm thickness and 46.8 mm lug-to-lug length, the Conquest 38 mm offers excellent ergonomics and fits wonderfully on thin wrists.
Five dial colors to choose from
Just like the Conquest 41 mm, this new 38 mm version is offered with five different dial colors:
All the dials have a subtle sunburst effect, more or less marked depending on the colors. A contrasting ribbon runs along the minute watch, reminiscent of vintage models from the Conquest collection.
Twelve beveled and applied indexes are placed on this ribbon, the four largest being filled with Super-LumiNova, just like the small square studs which adjoin them. The hour and minute hands, also beveled, are also luminescent to ensure good readability in the dark.
At 6 o'clock, there is a simple date window, the disc of which matches or contrasts with the color of the dial depending on the version.
A reliable and efficient movement
The Longines Conquest 38 mm is powered by the L888 caliber, based on an ETA movement. This automatic movement beats at a frequency of 25,200 vibrations per hour, has 21 jewels and offers a comfortable power reserve of 72 hours. It is also resistant to everyday magnetic fields.
The screw-down sapphire caseback allows you to admire the finishing touches of the movement, and contributes to the watch's 100-meter water resistance, just like the screw-down crown and the sapphire crystal.
A versatile and affordable watch
On my 17 cm wrist, the Longines Conquest 38 mm fits perfectly. With its limited thickness of 10.9 mm, it is invisible and slips easily under a shirt sleeve. My favorite versions are the champagne and green dials, which bring a touch of originality compared to the usual watches.
The quality of manufacturing and finishing is there, and corresponds perfectly to what one can expect in this price range. Certainly, a micro-adjustment system and quick-release bars would have been nice, but their absence is not prohibitive.
The Conquest 38 mm reminded me of my Rolex Explorer reference 114270, with its mix of modern and vintage aesthetic codes, and its all-purpose character. The ribbon engraved on the dial adds depth and plays nicely with the light, as does the fine sunray pattern.
The only small downside concerns the 19 mm center distance, which limits the choice of alternative bracelets. But as with my Explorer, I imagine most Conquest 38mm owners will wear it primarily on its steel bracelet.
The same price whatever the size
The Longines Conquest 38 mm is available only on a steel bracelet, at a price of €2,300, the same price as the 41 mm version. A pricing strategy different from that applied to the Spirit collection, where the 40 mm versions are €350 cheaper than the 42 mm.
In conclusion, the Longines Conquest 38 mm is a versatile and affordable watch, which will appeal to lovers of elegant and sporty watches, looking for a timepiece with contained dimensions. With its five dial colors and its carefully finished steel bracelet, it will adapt to all styles and all occasions. A great success from Longines!
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